How an Eye Examination Today Can Prevent Blindness Caused by Diabetes

CHICAGO, Nov. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- During Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month in November, the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) urges all adults to schedule a simple eye examination to check for the earliest signs of diabetic retinopathy.

According to the National Eye Institute, diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in American adults, affecting an estimated 4.1 million over age 40. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that often goes unnoticed until vision is affected. It is caused by elevated blood sugar levels from diabetes damaging or blocking the small blood vessels that nourish the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye that provides clear, sharp images.

As diabetic retinopathy cuts off this blood supply, vision is impaired. Symptoms include blurred or double vision, floaters, eye pain or pressure, or a shadow in the field of vision. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness.

"People who experience these symptoms should schedule an examination immediately," says ASRS president and retina specialist John T. Thompson, MD, of Retina Specialists in Maryland. "Because anyone can develop diabetes, it is important for all adults—even those who live healthy lifestyles—to schedule an annual eye examination. With early detection, vision loss from this disease can be prevented."

During a routine eye examination, an ophthalmologist can see the earliest signs of the disease, long before vision is affected and, if diagnosed, refer the patient to a retina specialist.

A retina specialist is a highly trained physician who specializes in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions and diseases. The retina specialist will begin a treatment regimen to prolong vision, slow the progression of the disease, and make living with it very manageable.

Take the first step in preserving vision. Visit www.SavingVision.org today to learn about diabetic retinopathy and other retina diseases and to locate an ASRS member retina specialist.

About ASRS
ASRS is the largest retinal organization in the world, with more than 2500 members in the US, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 53 countries.

Its mission is to provide a collegial open forum for education, to advance the understanding and treatment of vitreoretinal diseases, and to enhance the ability of its members to provide the highest quality of patient care.

Contact: Chris Jorgensen
Phone: 312-477-8869
Email: [email protected]

SOURCE American Society of Retina Specialists