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Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes is a disease in which the body cannot use sugar properly.
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high sugar levels damage blood
vessels in the retina. Compromised retinal circulation can result
in varying degrees of vision loss.
Early detection of diabetic retinopathy and controlling sugar
levels are important in preventing vision loss. Cathy Colt, MD,
Retina Specialist at Armstrong Colt George Ophthalmology, utilizes
the latest diagnosis and treatment methods for diabetic retinopathy,
including in-office laser treatment for damaged blood vessels
in the retina. Intraocular injections are sometimes used as an
adjunct therapy for difficult cases of diabetic macular edema
or severe cases of proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
Because there often are no symptoms of retinopathy, it is recommended
that diabetics have a full, dilated eye examination annually,
and more often if retinal changes occur.
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, vascular disease,
certain blood disorders or hypertension may be at risk for retinal
vein occlusion. A vein in the retina becomes blocked, and may
leak or bleed.
Although there is no cure, retinal vein occlusion can be treated
by intraocular injections or laser surgery, which are performed
in the Armstrong Colt George Ophthalmology offices. Patients are
then counseled on ways to prevent further occurrences.
Detached and Torn Retina
Retinal damage may occur when the vitreous, a gel-like fluid
that fills the eye, shrinks as the eye ages. The retina may then
tear, allowing fluid to seep behind it, further separating it
from the eye wall. A detached or torn retina must be treated promptly
to avoid serious vision impairment.
People who are nearsighted, have a family history of retinal
detachment, have suffered an eye injury, or are more than 50 years
old are at greater risk.
New or greatly increased floaters ("spots" or "cobwebs")
or flashers (bright spots of light) in the visual field are sometimes,
but not always, a symptom. A dark curtain over the field of vision
is an indicator of retina damage. It is important to see an eye
doctor immediately for an examination should these symptoms occur.
Retinal tears can often be repaired by laser photocoagulation
in the office of Armstrong Colt George Ophthalmology. The light
of the laser seals off the leaking area without incision or surgery.
Freezing the wall of a detached retina, also an in-office procedure,
may be utilized to repair a damaged area. More advanced detachments
may require surgical repair.
Armstrong Colt George Ophthalmology provides quality eye care in their Abington, PA and Hatboro, PA offices, serving patients from Montgomery County, PA, Bucks County, PA and Philadelphia, PA.
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