Managing Diabetic Eye Disease
According to the most recent numbers published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 39 million Americans — roughly 11% of the U.S. population — are living with diabetes. In some cases, the disease has been diagnosed and is being treated, but in other cases, people are dealing with the symptoms and damage, but don’t even know they have a life-threatening condition.
In recent years, advocates have been increasing education on diabetes prevention and treatment to address this global health concern. November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and the 2025 theme is “Diabetes and Well-Being”. At Ighani Eye Care, we want to do our part by focusing on making sure our patients living with diabetes understand the ways diabetes can affect their vision and what we can do to help.
Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease
Diabetes damages blood vessels all over the body, and that includes the tiniest blood vessels in the eyes. Due to this connection, people with diabetes should also have their eyes checked regularly for signs of diabetic eye disease. Diabetic eye disease typically develops with no warning signs, and damage can occur slowly, going unnoticed until there is significant damage.
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common microvascular complication experienced by people with diabetes. Diabetes, as we have learned, causes the weakening of the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. As a result, fluid and blood leak from these weakened vessels, and new vessels that grow can be distorted and begin to bleed. This can injure the retina, leading to vision loss.
Diabetic retinopathy most typically develops without any warning signs. Damage to the eye occurs slowly and may go unnoticed until there is significant damage. For this reason, anyone with diabetes should receive regular monitoring by a trusted eye specialist.
Macular Edema is another diabetes-related eye condition, which occurs when the macula (the center of the retina) swells due to weakened blood vessels that start to leak. This complication can lead to blurred or distorted vision.
Having diabetes also increases your risk of developing glaucoma and cataracts.
Treating Diabetic Eye Disease
Treatment for diabetic eye disease is highly individualized and based on your age, health, medical history and degree of damage to your retina, among other factors. In its earliest stages, diabetic retinopathy may not require treatment beyond regular monitoring by your Ighani Eye Care doctor.
If you require medical treatment for your condition, we can connect you with a trusted retina specialist who can thoroughly explain your options, including risks and benefits, and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your unique ocular condition.
I Care. You’ll See. The Ighani Eye Care Promise
If you or someone you love is living with diabetes, having a trusted eye care provider is a crucial element of your overall care. It would be our great honor to serve in that capacity. Dr. Farshid Ighani and Dr. Brian Anding have significant experience in this area.
At Ighani Eye Care, we are people first! From your first appointment and every moment of your care journey, we invite you to experience the genuine warmth and hospitality that are the hallmarks of Ighani Eye Care. Schedule your appointment today.
