Q: What is a common cause of vision loss from diabetes?
A: Diabetes can cause gradual and painless vision loss through fluid build-up in the retina, the layer of tissue that helps transform light entering the eye into a clear picture seen in the brain. Around 30 percent of patients with diabetes for more than 20 years have fluid build-up in the retina. Good blood sugar control can prevent the problem. But if it cannot be prevented, certain medical treatments can dramatically improve vision in around 40 percent of patients. Physician researchers are currently discovering improved ways to restore vision and combat fluid build-up in the retina through clinical trials.
- Dr. Francis Char DeCroos, Southeastern Retina Associates; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
Send questions for a medical doctor to Wesley Holloway at wholloway@timesfreepress.com or call 423-757-6613.