Diabetic Retina Exam – Naples, Florida with Dr. Marilyn Marquez
Diabetes can significantly impact various aspects of health, and one of the most vulnerable areas is the eyes. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina, and it is one of the leading causes of blindness among adults. Thankfully, with early detection and proper treatment, vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can often be prevented. In Naples, Florida, Dr. Marilyn Marquez at Tyson Eye is a trusted specialist in diabetic retina exams, offering personalized care and cutting-edge treatments for patients with diabetes.
In 2021 across all ages, an estimated 9.6 million people in the United States were living with diabetic retinopathy (DR). (CDC)
Why Are Diabetic Retina Exams Important?
Diabetes affects the blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, high blood sugar levels can cause the blood vessels in the retina to weaken, leak, or even close off entirely, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This condition can progress silently without symptoms in its early stages, making regular eye exams crucial for individuals with diabetes.
A diabetic retina exam allows an eye specialist to detect early signs of damage, even before the patient notices any changes in vision. Early detection gives patients the best chance of managing the condition and preventing further complications, such as blindness.
You can have diabetic retinopathy and not know it. This is because it often has no symptoms in its early stages. As diabetic retinopathy gets worse, you will notice symptoms such as: (AAO)
- Seeing an increasing number of floaters
- Having blurry vision
- Having vision that changes sometimes from blurry to clear
- Seeing blank or dark areas in your field of vision
- Having poor night vision
- Noticing colors appear faded or washed out
- Losing vision
What to Expect During a Diabetic Retina Exam
When you schedule a diabetic retina exam with Dr. Marilyn Marquez at Tyson Eye in Naples, you can expect a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of your eye health. The exam typically includes several steps to ensure the most accurate diagnosis.
1. Dilation
Your exam will begin with the dilation of your pupils. Dilating eye drops are used to widen the pupil, allowing Dr. Marquez to get a better view of the retina and the blood vessels within. This process takes about 15-20 minutes for the drops to take effect, and while your vision may be blurred temporarily, it is essential for providing a detailed view of the retina.
2. Retinal Imaging
One of the key tools in a diabetic retina exam is retinal imaging. Dr. Marquez will use specialized cameras to take high-resolution images of the retina. These images allow for a closer look at the blood vessels and any areas of concern. The images can reveal early signs of diabetic retinopathy, such as swelling, leaking fluid, or abnormal blood vessel growth.
3. Fluorescein Angiography
In some cases, Dr. Marquez may recommend a fluorescein angiography. This is a test in which a dye is injected into a vein in the arm. The dye travels to the blood vessels in the retina, and special imaging captures how the blood flows through them. This test is particularly helpful for identifying blockages or abnormal blood vessel growth, which are hallmarks of advanced diabetic retinopathy.
4. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
OCT is another imaging technique used during a diabetic retina exam. This non-invasive test provides cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing Dr. Marquez to assess the thickness of the retina and detect any swelling or fluid accumulation, which are common in diabetic macular edema, another complication of diabetes.
Personalized Treatment Plans
If Dr. Marquez identifies any signs of diabetic retinopathy during your exam, she will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition but may include:
- Laser Therapy: Used to seal leaking blood vessels or shrink abnormal ones.
- Injections: Anti-VEGF injections help to reduce swelling and stop abnormal blood vessels from growing.
- Vitrectomy: In more advanced cases, a vitrectomy may be required to remove scar tissue or blood from the vitreous to improve vision.
Dr. Marquez is committed to providing patients with the most up-to-date treatment options and will guide you through each step to ensure the best possible outcome.
Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy
While diabetic retinopathy can be managed and treated, prevention is always the best approach. Here are a few key tips for reducing the risk of diabetic retinopathy:
- Control Blood Sugar Levels: Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range helps protect the blood vessels in the eyes and throughout the body.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol can exacerbate the effects of diabetes on the eyes, so keeping these under control is crucial.
- Regular Eye Exams: The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking can help reduce the risk of complications related to diabetes.
Why Choose Dr. Marilyn Marquez at Tyson Eye?
Dr. Marilyn Marquez is a highly skilled ophthalmologist specializing in diabetic retina care. She has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating diabetic retinopathy and other retinal conditions. Patients in Naples trust Dr. Marquez for her compassionate approach, attention to detail, and commitment to helping them preserve their vision.
At Tyson Eye, Dr. Marquez and her team use the latest technology in retinal imaging and treatment to ensure that every patient receives the highest standard of care. Whether you’re in the early stages of diabetes or have been managing the condition for years, Dr. Marquez can provide the expert care you need to protect your eyesight.
Schedule Your Diabetic Retina Exam Today
If you have diabetes, protecting your vision is crucial. A diabetic retina exam with Dr. Marilyn Marquez in Naples, Florida, could be the key to detecting early signs of damage and preventing vision loss. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule your appointment today and take a proactive step toward safeguarding your eye health.
For more information or to book an exam, contact Tyson Eye and let Dr. Marquez help you maintain clear vision for years to come.
Come See Us at Tyson Eye
At Tyson Eye, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support for all your eye health needs. Whether you’re seeking routine eye exams, specialized treatments, or advanced surgical options, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
With six convenient locations across the region—Cape Coral, Fort Myers, North Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Naples—Tyson Eye is committed to making high-quality eye care easily accessible to you.
Don’t wait to prioritize your eye health. Schedule an appointment with us today to receive the expert care you deserve. Call us at 239-542-2020 to schedule your consultation
Article Reviewed 10/3/2024
Dr. Marilyn A. Márquez is a fellowship trained ophthalmologist certified by the international council of ophthalmology. Dr. Márquez specialists in the diagnosis and treatments of macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, flashes and floaters and ocular vein occlusion.