Robert M. Scharfman, M.D.

By Robert M. Scharfman, M.D., F.A.A.O. EYESITE 450762 DIABETES AND EYE HEALTH According to the American Diabetes Association, people with Diabetes have a higher risk of blindness than people without Diabetes. Diabetic Retinopathy is the most common ocular complication for Diabetics. The retina records images focused on it, and converts the images into electrical signals which are decoded by the brain. Any damage to the retina or the capillaries that help supply blood and fluids to the retina, puts vision at risk. Many people know that uncontrolled Diabetes can lead to retinal disease, but did you know that Diabetics are 40% more likely to develop Glaucoma and 60% more likely to get Cataracts? Glaucoma is the result of pressure building up in the eye which in turn causes blood vessels to be choked off. The consequence of this is permanent damage to the retina and optic nerve and in turn loss of vision. In Cataracts there is a clouding of the eyes’ lens which blocks light from entering the eye and slowly diminishes vision. There are medical and surgical options for all of these diseases, but experts agree that prevention is the best alternative of all. Keeping blood sugar and blood pressure levels under control and maintaining good general health can certainly help. Is an Ophthalmologist part of your healthcare team? Eye exams for diabetics are almost always covered by medical insurance. At Atlantic Medical Eye Care we stress preventative eye health care and periodic checkups. Your eyesight is precious. Let us help you protect your vision. We’re located at 3 Hospital Plaza, in Old Bridge and we can be reached at (732) 607–0555 . For more information, log onto our website at www.njlasikmd.com. <WEBSITE>www.njlasikmd.com</WEBSITE>