Based in Tucson, Arizona, Retina Associates is a full-time retina specialist led by Cameron Javid, MD. Retina Associates provides treatments and medical support for a number of ocular health conditions, including management of diabetes symptoms.

Diabetes can have a widespread impact on the body, including the eyes. There are several health conditions resulting from diabetes that can result in visual impairment or vision loss, including diabetes retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular edema, the latter of which often develops alongside diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetic retinopathy is a major concern not only for individuals living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, but also those with gestational diabetes. The longer an individual lives with diabetes, the greater the risk of retinopathy. If a person deals with higher-than-average levels of blood sugar, blood pressure, or cholesterol, they may be at further risk for the disease. Smoking is another risk factor for diabetic retinopathy.

Early intervention is important with diabetic retinopathy, as vision loss if often preventable with treatment. Options range from laser therapy to a group of medicines known as VEGF inhibitors. Potential signs of diabetic retinopathy include spots and blurring, distorted vision, and seeing flashes.