Diabetes Awareness Month

November is Diabetes awareness month and to help bring awareness to this campaign we are offering limited free screening appointments to new patients.  This will take place on Tuesday morning the 15th, 22nd and 29th of November 2011.  Spaces are limited so phone now to book an appointment: 021 9100 300.

When blood sugar is constantly or frequently high, many complications can occur, including eyesight can suffer.  In Diabetic retinopathy the blood vessels of the retina become abnormal.  They can develop tiny leaks, causing fluid or blood to seep into the retina.  The retina then becomes wet and swollen, affecting vision.  Retinal blood vessels can also close.  The retinal tissue, which depends on those vessels for nutrition, will no longer function properly.  These areas of the retina then foster the growth of abnormal new blood vessels, called neovascularization, which can cause blindness by bleeding into the vitreous cavity.  It can also cause the development of scar tissue, which can pull the retina loose (traction retinal detachment).

It is therefore very important for Diabetics to have a dilated retinal examination at least once a year.  Patients who are already receiving eye laser treatment for diabetic retinopathy must have a follow-up examination every 3 to 6 months.

For more information about how diabetes can affect your eyes please contact The Tygervalley Eye & Laser Centre at 021 9100 300 or "info @ eyelaserclinic.co.za", or visit www.eyelaserclinic.co.za.

Read more on our November 2011 Newsletter on our Blog