Treating cataracts is one of the mainstays of Dr. Andrew Calman’s ophthalmology practice in San Francisco, California. Andrew Calman, MD, provides innovative cataract surgery, often without stitches, patches, or injections. 

Cataracts consist of vision-affecting clouding in the lens of the eye. More than half of people over 80 have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. Aging correlates with most cataracts. Other causes include diabetes, glaucoma, injury, or steroid use. 

Cataracts develop when protein in the human lens clumps together and becomes translucent. Evidence suggests that cataracts may be linked to smoking, alcohol use, and diabetes, but the major risk factor is age.

Several symptoms may point to cataracts. Lights may seem to have a halo around them, and nighttime glare is common. Blurred or double vision also may be indicators.

Individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes might have to deal with a number of related conditions, including diabetic retinopathy. This disorder damages the blood vessels of the retina. Initially, people with this condition might not notice any change in their vision, but over time it can lead to blindness. In fact, diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of legal blindness in working-age Americans.

The early form of the disorder is marked by leaky blood vessels in the retina. Microaneurysms caused by diabetes can leak blood and fluid into the retina, causing blurred vision. Advanced, or proliferative, diabetic retinopathy is considered more problematic because it features the growth of abnormal blood vessels, which can lead to severe bleeding, retinal scar tissue and glaucoma.

Doctors base treatment on the patient's form of diabetic retinopathy. Those with early diabetic retinopathy may not need immediate care, other than controlling blood sugar and blood pressure. However, advanced diabetic retinopathy often requires medication injections, laser treatment, or even surgery. With early diagnosis and treatment, 90% of diabetes-related blindness can be prevented. That's why an annual dilated eye exam is so important for all persons with diabetes -- even if you see 20/20!

About the Author:

Based out of Premier Eyecare of San Francisco, Andrew Calman, MD, cares for patients as a board certified ophthalmologist. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the conditions he treats.