1. Routine Retinal Exams
2. Fluoresceinangiography Studies of Diabetics
3. Argon Lasers for Leaking Blood vessels
4. Retinal Detachment, Repair
5. Macular Degeneration Evaluations

Long time diabetics are susceptible to diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes can cause changes in the blood vessels in the retina of the eye. This condition may include leaking blood, blood vessel enlargement and the development of weak blood vessels.

In the beginning, diabetic retinopathy may cause blurriness in your vision or there may be no symptoms. As the condition worsens there may be increased swelling and hemorrhaging of the retina which could cause moderate to severe vision loss.

Diabetic retinopathy can severely affect vision and even cause blindness if it is not treated. Thanks to the use of fundus photography or "retinal photos" which show the inside of the eye during the comprehensive eye examination at Chiasson Eye Care Center, diabetic retinopathy can be detected early. It is essential to have your eyes checked on a regular basis.

If diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed, laser or surgical treatments can be used to control the condition and minimize the risk of permanent blindness.

The American Optometric Association suggests that those at risk of diabetic retinopathy take the following preventive steps:

• take your prescribed medication as instructed.
• follow a proper diet.
• exercise regularly.
• have your eyes examined regularly.