Although diabetes may seem like a condition that would be spotted very quickly, some people develop type 2 and may not notice any problems for an extended period. As a result, they may only get tipped off to this issue when they experience more serious concerns, such as vision loss. Therefore, it is critical to reach out to professionals like ophthalmologists when this condition strikes.
Diabetic Retinopathy Is a Real Problem
Diabetic retinopathy occurs in people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It will cause damage to the eye that can slowly degrade a person's vision. Though properly treating the symptoms of diabetes can minimize or even stop this condition from occurring, those who didn't notice the development of this vision problem may find themselves in a very scary position.
When this condition strikes, a person with diabetes may suddenly find that they are losing some of their vision. And if left to worsen, this problem will cause permanent blindness. As a result, it is critical for those who just discovered they had diabetes to visit an ophthalmologist right away. Though they need to see other medical experts, too, these care specialists can help with eye-related problems. And this care should be done ASAP because immediate treatment is required.
When an Ophthalmologist is Necessary
Anybody who didn't know they had diabetes for a few years may need to see an ophthalmologist right away. These professionals are a step above optometrists in their training and perform a variety of techniques that optometrists cannot. For example, they can perform eye surgery to manage a broad array of problems that can affect a person who has diabetic retinopathy.
Just as importantly, they can perform all of the treatment options available at an optometrist. As a result, they can give eye tests, prescribe medications, and provide other treatments to help a person with vision problems. In this way, a person who has diabetes knows that they can get the high-quality help that they need to recover from as much of their retinopathy as is possible.
However, that doesn't mean that a person with diabetes doesn't benefit from trips to an optometrist. These experts are better for regular checkups and eye exams that don't require detailed surgery. That said, those who have diabetes that was undiagnosed for years should see an ophthalmologist instead because they likely have issues that have progressed beyond more conservative care methods.
Contact an ophthalmology professional for more information.