(818) 348-4666

   
   
Diabetic Retinopathy (REH-tih-NOP-uh-thee)
Diabetic Retinopathy is the medical term for the most common diabetic eye problem. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in American  adults. It damages the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive nerve tissue in your eye that sends visual images to your brain.
   


Blurred vision or temporary blindness can occur when blood vessels weaken, bulge and leak fluid into surrounding tissue, causing swelling - a condition called macular edema. Abnormal new blood vessels may often, grow on the retina, where they can bleed into the eye and block vision.

As the disease progresses, the retina can detach from the eye, resulting in permanent blindness. Irreversible vision loss can be prevented with early detection and treatment. This is just one of the reasons it is so important to have your eyes checked on a regular basis. In addition to testing your vision, we will look for any signs of eye disease.

Retinal damage happens slowly. Your retinas have tiny blood vessels that are easy to damage. Having high blood glucose and high blood pressure for a long time can damage these tiny blood vessels.

First, these tiny blood vessels swell and weaken. Some blood vessels then become clogged and do not let enough blood through. At first, you might not have any loss of sight from these changes. This is why you need to have a comprehensive eye exam once a year even if your sight seems fine.


As diabetic retinal problems get worse, new blood vessels may grow. These new blood vessels are weak. They break easily and leak blood into the vitreous of your eye. The leaking blood keeps light from reaching the retina.

You may see floating spots or almost total darkness. Sometimes the blood will clear out by itself, but you might need surgery to remove it.

Over the years, the swollen and weak blood vessels can form scar tissue and pull the retina away from the back of the eye. If the retina becomes detached, you may see floating spots or flashing lights.

You may feel as if a curtain has been pulled over part of your vision. A detached retina can cause loss of sight or blindness if you don't take care of it right away.

Call us right away if you are having any vision problems
or if you have had a sudden change in your vision!
West Valley Optometry's Eye Doctors and Staff Provide
Quality Eye Care and Personalized Service You Can Trust

West Valley Optometry    

Temporary COVID-19
OFFICE HOURS:
Monday 9:00 - 7:00
Tuesday 9:00 - 5:30
Wednesday 9:00 - 5:30
Thursday 9:00 - 5:30
Friday 9:00 - 5:30
Saturday 9:00 - 1:00
 
HIPAA-Compliance-Verification





Ready for the next step?
Call Today (818) 348-4666

Since 1961, West Valley Optometry has been the leader and preferred provider of quality vision care products and personalized optometric services to our patients in Canoga Park and the surrounding areas.

In our mission to provide the best eye care services possible, our doctors use only the most advanced, state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and eye care products available.

Everyone at West Valley Optometry is genuinely committed to educating our patients and providing personalized eye care services to the people of Canoga Park and neighboring communities.

Schedule your Eye health and Vision appointment today with our experienced eye care providers at our Canoga Park optometrist office and give your vision the level of care and attention it deserves.

Save more with VSP >>



West Valley Optometry 8391 Topanga Canyon Blvd. West Hills, CA 91304 Phone: (818) 348-4666 Fax: (818) 348-4283

© 2024 All content is the property of West Valley Optometry ™ & assoc. vendors.
Website Powered and Developed by EyeVertise.com