National Diabetes Month

November is National Diabetes Month. Dr. Barbara Tarbell, Therapeutic Optometrist, encourages anyone who has, or may be at risk for, diabetes to have an annual eye examination.

“Diabetes affects 18.2 million Americans, 5.2 million of which may not know they have the disease, “ Dr. Tarbell said. “ One of the health problems associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, a disease of the eye which can cause blindness.”

Diabetic retinopathy can weaken and cause changes in the blood vessels that nourish the retina. Symptoms may include blurred vision, cloudiness and/or “floaters”.

“But the early stages of diabetic retinopathy may produce no visual symptoms at all,“ Dr. Tarbell said. “That is why it is so important for anyone who has diabetes or a family history of diabetes to have a comprehensive annual eye examination.” “Early detection and treatment are essential,” Dr. Tarbell added, “because once damage has occurred, the effects are usually permanent.”

Dr. Tarbell owns and practices at Advanced Eyecare & Vision Gallery located at 305 Omni Drive in Hillsborough. For more information, visit www.eyecare-nj.com or call 908-281-0800.