When Eye Care For People with Diabetes is Critical

There are nearly 40 million people who have diabetes in the United States, according to the CDC’s diabetes statistics for 2023. While a range of health concerns are associated with the disease, one many people are less aware of is sight degeneration. Diabetes can lead to a range of eye complications, such as cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. At the Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield, we understand the importance of eye care for people with diabetes and offer efficient and modern eye care services to address diabetes complications.

What is Diabetes?

Before we dive into the importance of eye care for people with diabetes, let’s briefly discuss what diabetes is. Diabetes is a disease that negatively affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). With diabetes, your body either does not produce enough insulin and/or does not effectively utilize insulin to move glucose from the bloodstream to your cells, where it can be used for energy. If not properly managed, diabetes can lead to various health complications, including eye problems.

Beneficial Eye Care For People with Diabetes

As mentioned earlier, diabetes can lead to several eye complications. These are some of the most common eye problems that people with diabetes can experience:

  1. Diabetic Retinopathy: Occurring when blood sugar levels are too high, this condition can damage the smallest blood vessels in the retina. Over time, this can cause the blood vessels to leak or become blocked, leading to vision loss.
  2. Cataracts: Cataracts occur when the eye lens becomes cloudy, which can cause blurred vision. People with diabetes have an increased risk of developing cataracts at a younger age than those without diabetes.
  3. Glaucoma: This term refers to a group of eye conditions that threaten the optic nerve. If left untreated, glaucoma conditions can lead to vision loss.

The Holtebeck Eye Center offers various eye care services to address diabetes complications. Our team, led by Dr. Aaron Holtebeck, has the latest technology and expertise to diagnose and treat these conditions. We use advanced imaging techniques to monitor changes in the retina and offer treatments such as laser therapy and injections to prevent vision loss.

Preventing Eye Problems

While we offer efficient and modern eye care services, we also believe in the importance of preventative care. Here are some tips for preventing eye problems if you have diabetes:

  1. Manage Your Blood Sugar: Keeping your blood sugar levels under control is one of the most important things you can do to prevent eye problems. Work with your healthcare team to develop a plan to manage your blood sugar levels.
  2. Get Regular Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are essential for detecting and treating eye problems early. People with diabetes should schedule a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year, according to the American Diabetes Association’s recommendations.
  3. Control Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and high cholesterol can also increase your risk of eye problems. Work with your healthcare team to manage these conditions.

Choose the Holtebeck Eye Center for Your Diabetic Eye Care

Eye care for people with diabetes is critical. At the Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield, we offer efficient and modern eye care services to address diabetes complications. Dr. Holtebeck and the rest of our team are dedicated to providing eye care to ensure our patients receive the best possible outcomes. If you have diabetes, we encourage you to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with us today. Let us help you protect your vision and maintain your quality of life.

What To Expect During Your Cataract Surgery Recovery

Cataract surgery is a relatively common eye care procedure that is performed to remove a cloudy lens from the eye and replace it with an artificial one. Although the surgery itself is relatively quick and painless, the recovery process can take a bit longer. In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect during your cataract surgery recovery and how Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield can help you through the process.

First Few Days of Recovery From Cataract Surgery 

During the first few days following your cataract surgery, you may experience some discomfort or mild pain in your eye. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. You may also be advised to wear a protective cover over your eye for the first day following the procedure to prevent any accidental injury to the eye.

It will be important to avoid touching or rubbing your eye during the recovery period, as this can lead to infection or other complications. You may also experience some sensitivity to light, which can be managed by wearing sunglasses or avoiding bright lights.

At Holtebeck Eye Center, we offer the most modern and efficient cataract surgery services that prioritize your comfort and convenience. Our eye care team will provide you with detailed instructions for your recovery period and answer any questions or concerns you have throughout the process.

Recovery: Week One

During the first week of cataract surgery recovery time, you may notice some blurriness or haziness in your vision. This is normal and should gradually improve as your eye heals. You may also experience some redness or swelling in your eye, which can be managed with prescribed eye drops.

We will likely also advise you to avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting during the first week of recovery. You may also need to take a few days off from work to allow your eye to heal fully.

At Holtebeck Eye Center, we understand that busy working professionals do not have time to slow down for a lengthy recovery period. With that in mind, we do our best to help you get back to yourself and your daily routine as quickly as possible.

Recovery: Weeks Two and Three

During weeks two and three of your cataract surgery recovery, you should begin to notice a significant improvement in your vision. Your eye may still be slightly sensitive to light, so we will likely tell you to continue wearing sunglasses or avoiding bright lights when possible.

At this point in your recovery, you will likely resume your normal daily activities and return to work. But you will want to continue avoiding any unnecessary strenuous activities for at least a few more weeks.

Trust The Best Eye Doctor In Brookfield With Your Cataract Eye Surgery

At Holtebeck Eye Center, we believe in providing our patients with modern and efficient eye care services that prioritize their comfort and convenience. Whether you need cataract surgery or any other eye care services, our experienced team is here to provide the best possible care. Please note that all of the information covered in this blog is meant as a general guideline for cataract surgery recovery. Your experience may differ, and the specific advice we administer will be tailored to your needs, lifestyle, and health history. 

Cataract surgery recovery can take some time, but you can make a full and speedy recovery with the right care and attention from the best eye doctor in Brookfield. Dr. Holtebeck and the rest of the Holtebeck team are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care throughout their recovery period and beyond. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to keep your eyes as healthy as can be!

What Methods are Used for Thyroid Eye Disease Treatments?

What is thyroid eye disease? Also known as TED or Graves’ eye disease, thyroid eye disease is a condition that can affect the eyes of individuals with hyperthyroidism. This autoimmune disease causes swelling and inflammation in the eye socket, which can lead to a range of symptoms, including bulging eyes, dry eyes, double vision, eye pain, and more. The Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield knows that thyroid eye disease treatments can take on a number of forms with early detection being the most important factor.

Early Detection Is Key For Successful Thyroid Eye Disease Treatments

If you suspect you may have thyroid eye disease or have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or another form of thyroid imbalance, it is crucial to undergo regular eye exams to catch the early signs of TED. The early detection of thyroid eye disease symptoms is essential to begin treatment promptly and prevent severe complications. At Holtebeck Eye Center, we recommend scheduling a comprehensive eye exam as soon as possible to identify any changes in your vision or eye health.

Diagnosis And Treatment of Thyroid Eye Disease

Diagnosing and treating thyroid eye disease requires a comprehensive eye exam and approach that considers the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and overall health. At Holtebeck Eye Center, we start with a thorough eye exam to assess the movement of your eyes and the appearance of your eyelids. If we suspect thyroid eye disease, we may order blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels. Additionally, imaging tests, such as computer tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be necessary to assess the extent of the disease and its impact on your eye sockets. Our team will work closely with you to find the most effective thyroid treatment plan that addresses your individual needs and concerns.

Lifestyle Changes

For some individuals with the symptoms of thyroid eye disease, lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve overall eye health. Quitting smoking is one of the most crucial steps as smoking can aggravate TED symptoms and cause further eye damage. Cool compresses can also help alleviate inflammation and soothe the eyes. Wearing sunglasses and using lubricating eye drops can help relieve dry eyes, a common symptom of eye thyroid disease. Our team at Holtebeck Eye Center can provide further guidance and recommendations for lifestyle changes that may help improve your symptoms and manage your condition.

Medication

Another treatment option for thyroid eye disease is medication. Anti-inflammatory drugs can help bring down tissue swelling, which can help alleviate symptoms. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the eye socket and improving eye muscle function. Depending on your specific symptoms and medical history, our team of experts may recommend different types of medications to manage your condition. We will work closely with you to find the most effective treatment plan to relieve your symptoms and improve your overall eye health.

Surgery

In more advanced cases of TED, surgery may be necessary to improve symptoms. Eyelid surgery can correct eyelid retraction or ptosis, while eye muscle surgery can correct double vision or other eye movement problems. Orbital decompression surgery may be necessary to reduce pressure on the optic nerve and improve vision. However, there are also other, new medical treatments that may delay or avoid the need for surgery in some patients.

At Holtebeck Eye Center, we are proud to offer a wide range of treatment options for thyroid eye disease. Our team of experts will work with you to determine the best course of action based on your specific needs and medical history. We use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure that each treatment is safe, efficient, and effective.

Schedule An Appointment Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of thyroid eye disease or have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Our team of professionals at Holtebeck Eye Center is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care to improve your vision and quality of life. 

Thyroid eye disease is a challenging condition that requires early detection and proper treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications. At Holtebeck Eye Center, we offer a range of thyroid eye disease treatments , including lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery, to manage symptoms and improve your overall eye health. If you are experiencing symptoms of thyroid eye disease, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today to discuss your treatment options. Our team of experts is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care to help you maintain healthy eyes and optimal vision.

Difference Between Cataract Surgery & Lens Replacement

At the Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield, we understand that maintaining your eye health is essential for your overall well-being. As individuals age, they may experience vision problems, including cataracts or issues with their lenses. In this blog, we will discuss the difference between cataract surgery and lens replacement surgery, two common procedures that can address these vision problems. Our team, led by Dr. Aaron Holtebeck, is experienced in performing both cataract surgery and lens replacement surgery, and we are dedicated to providing the best possible care for our patients.

Cataract Surgery

Cataracts occur when the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy, making it difficult to see clearly. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, which is usually made of plastic or silicone. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients can return home the same day. Cataract surgery is an effective way to improve your vision, and it can also prevent blindness in some cases.

At Holtebeck Eye Center, we provide personalized cataract surgery services. Our team of professionals will work with you to determine the best course of action for your specific needs. We use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure that the surgery is safe, efficient, and effective.

Lens Replacement

Lens replacement, also known as clear lens exchange, is a procedure that involves removing the natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. This procedure is typically performed on patients who have issues with their refractive error but do not have cataracts. Lens replacement can be an effective way to treat all forms of refractive error, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, among other issues. The procedure is similar to cataract surgery, and it is performed under local anesthesia.

At Holtebeck Eye Center, we offer eye lens replacement surgery to help improve your vision. Our team of experts will work with you to determine if lens replacement is the best option for your individual needs. We use advanced technology and techniques to ensure that the procedure is safe, efficient, and effective. 

Importance of Consultation

It is essential to remember that every patient’s vision problems are unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. That is why it is crucial to schedule a consultation with an eye specialist to determine the best course of action for your specific needs. The importance of regular eye exams only increases as you age and start to notice disturbances. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your vision, discuss your options, and answer any questions you may have. We will also provide you with information about what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Schedule an Appointment Today

At Holtebeck Eye Center, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care. If you are experiencing vision problems and are interested in learning more about cataract surgery or lens replacement, please schedule an appointment with us today. Our team of professionals is here to help you improve your vision and enhance your quality of life. 

5 Ways For People With Diabetes To Take Care Of Their Eyes

If you have diabetes, it’s important to understand that the disease can affect your eyes in a number of ways. For example, high blood sugar levels can cause damage to blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems. Additionally, diabetic retinopathy is a condition that can occur when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged, leading to vision loss. Cataracts and glaucoma are also more common in people with diabetes.

At Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield, we specialize in providing comprehensive eye care services, including diabetic eye care. Dr. Holtebeck and our team of eye care professionals have the expertise and experience to help those with diabetes to maintain healthy eyes and avoid eye problems that could lead to vision loss.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

One of the most valuable things that people with diabetes can do to take care of their eyes is to attend regular eye exams. Annual eye exams are crucial for detecting eye problems early on before they become more severe. During an eye exam, our eye doctors can assess the health of your eyes and detect any changes that could lead to vision loss. These exams are especially vital for patients who have diabetes, as they are at a higher risk for developing eye problems.

Keep Regular Appointments with Your Primary Medical Doctor

Your visits with your primary care doctor are crucial in preventing complications from diabetes such as vision loss, heart attack, and stroke.  Monitoring your blood sugar through routine labs, as well as monitoring blood pressure and lipid profiles are a very part of care in all patients, especially for those with diabetes.

Avoid Smoking

Quitting smoking is another important step that you can take to protect your eyes if you have diabetes as smoking can increase the risk of eye problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that smoking increases the risk of developing eye problems, including diabetic retinopathy, which can cause blindness. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk and improve your overall health. 

Eat A Healthy Diet

Following a healthy diet is also crucial for patients with diabetes who want to maintain healthy eyes. A poor diet tends to increase blood sugar levels and can damage blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems. On the other hand, a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats has a variety of benefits. It can help keep your blood sugar levels and blood pressure in check, which can reduce your risk of eye problems. 

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is also important for maintaining healthy eyes. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, keep your blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check, and reduce your risk of eye problems. Be sure to talk with your doctor about what will work best for you, but most individuals can aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days of the week. 

Take Prescribed Medications

If you have diabetes, it is essential to take any medications that your doctor has prescribed. Following their guidelines and prescriptions can help manage your blood sugar levels and blood pressure. As mentioned, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can cause damage to blood vessels in the eyes. Additionally, it is critical to communicate with your doctor if you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurred vision or floaters, or if you have any other concerns about your eyes. This information will help them make any necessary corrections to your prescriptions and other health guidelines.  

Prevent Vision Loss Due To Diabetes

If you have diabetes, taking certain steps is essential for maintaining healthy vision. By getting regular eye exams, quitting smoking, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking medication as prescribed, and communicating with your doctor, you can reduce your risk of eye problems and protect your vision. At Holtebeck Eye Center, we are committed to providing exceptional eye care for all of our patients. Schedule an exam with Dr. Holtebeck to learn more about diabetic eye care services.

What Is The Best Treatment For Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that develops over time as a result of faulty fluid drainage. The two types are open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma. In the first kind, the eye’s failure to drain leads to a clog. In the latter type, the drainage angle becomes blocked by the iris. With open-angle, patients notice vision issues slowly over time. When it comes to angle closure, patients may suffer an acute attack if the drainage angle becomes fully blocked. These attacks can include sudden blurred vision, eye pain, headaches, vision disruptions, and more. And there are many other glaucoma symptoms to watch out for. Additionally, risk factors include being age 40 or above and having a family history of glaucoma. 

While it is a permanent condition that cannot be reversed, there are medicines and surgery that prevent further development and damage from occurring. The Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield offers several options for treatment for glaucoma.  

Medication Treatment For Glaucoma

There are some medications that are formulated to treat the advancement of glaucoma. As such, these medications can help prevent glaucoma from developing and/or becoming worse. One of the most common glaucoma medicines comes in the form of prescription eye drops. These drops can work to reduce eye pressure, assisting in the prevention of optic nerve damage. It is important to note that these drops, as with any other medication, do not reverse vision loss or cure glaucoma. Talk with Dr. Holtebeck about if these eye drops might be right for your condition. 

Laser Surgery for Treating Glaucoma

For people with open-angle glaucoma, there is sometimes the option for laser eye surgery. In order to lower intraocular pressure inside your eye, this surgery assists fluid in draining from your eye. During laser surgery for glaucoma, your eye doctor applies numbing drops to your eyes and aims a laser into your eyes to drain fluid. 

Again, this option will not work to reverse any vision loss you have already incurred, but it can help in the further development of symptoms in some cases. Your eye doctor will know best if this option is suitable to your form of glaucoma and its level of advancement. 

Operating Room Surgery To Address Glaucoma

A similar option to laser surgery is more-traditional operating room surgery that seeks to address open-angle glaucoma. During the procedure, your doctor creates a very small opening under your eyelid that provides a route for excess fluid to drain from the eye. When done successfully, this glaucoma surgery can help to lower the pressure in your eye. 

When you come to the Holtebeck Eye Center for glaucoma treatment options, Dr. Holtebeck may discuss this option if he determines that it may be appropriate for you and your glaucoma symptoms. 

What Is The Right Option For You?

The only way to know for sure which of these options will work best for your glaucoma case is to meet with Dr. Holtebeck to discuss your symptoms. He will also examine your eyes using all necessary tools and technology to determine the glaucoma advancement. What treatment for glaucoma is right for you will depend on many factors, such as the advancement of your symptoms. Book an appointment at the Holtebeck Eye Center today to discuss your options with Dr. Holtebeck. 

 

Can I Repair Eye Damage From Diabetes?

As the hormone responsible for blood sugar regulation, insulin is incredibly important. As such, its disruption can negatively affect many body functions. Sight is one such function that can be greatly affected by diabetes. Signs of diabetic eye disease include blurry vision, floaters, dark spots, and increased difficulty seeing at night due to glare. These symptoms do tend to worsen if left untreated and may even lead to permanent vision loss. The best way to address any symptoms and prevent advancement will depend on your specific health history and should be discussed during an eye exam at the Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield. However, here we offer some basic tips for helping to prevent and address eye damage from diabetes. 

Manage Blood Sugar Levels

One of the main ways to help repair eye damage from diabetes, and manage diabetes more generally, is by controlling your blood sugar levels. When you have had diabetes for a long time, you may know that elevated blood sugar levels can cause what is known as a “sugar rush” that can damage blood vessels in the eye. This occurrence leads to diabetic retinopathy. If you are able to keep your blood sugar levels in a healthy range, you can prevent diabetic retinopathy before it can occur. Two of the best habits for managing blood sugar levels are eating a healthy diet and regularly exercising. Talk with your eye doctor about specific treatments for diabetic retinopathy.  

Consider Your Diet

Another thing that can affect your diabetes is diet. Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to manage diabetes symptoms as well as your general health. However, it can sometimes be difficult to know what foods are best for you and if you need to take any supplements. Because of this uncertainty and variations from person to person, we recommend visiting a dietician or nutritionist if you can. Access to such specialists is often available through your primary care office, so consider inquiring about this option if you have diabetes or are worried about the onset of it.  

Manage Stress

We are sure you will agree that this piece of advice is generally useful! Stress management is particularly beneficial for assisting in regulating blood sugar levels while also being great for your health overall. Increased stress leads to increased blood sugar levels that can cause or exacerbate eye damage. So, with that in mind, regularly take time for stress-relieving and relaxing activities like meditation and mindfulness.  

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Most importantly for addressing eye damage from diabetes is to schedule regular comprehensive eye exams. These exams will allow for eye problems to be identified and addressed as early as possible. Doing so can allow for disrupting the advancement of diabetic eye disease before permanent damage occurs. One way we at The Holtebeck Eye Center check for diabetic retinopathy is through pupil dilation, which we will often administer as part of your regular eye exam. If any issues are identified, Dr. Holtebeck will discuss options for treatment with you. 

Learn More About Eye Damage From Diabetes

By seeking guidance from your eye doctor, and following it, it is possible to repair some less-advanced eye damage from diabetes. However, it is much more critical and effective to take steps to prevent diabetic eye disease in the first place. To do so, book an appointment with Dr. Holtebeck to discuss your eye health and best practices today. Together, we can work to prevent eye issues associated with diabetes. 

 

How To Find The Right Comprehensive Eye Care Doctor For You

Looking for a new healthcare provider is rarely a fun task. In fact, it can be downright overwhelming, especially when you already have a busy schedule and a packed to-do list. Whether you are looking for a new general practitioner, a dentist, or an eye doctor, it is helpful to know what to prioritize in your search. Below, The Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield offers some guidelines for choosing the right comprehensive eye care doctor for you. Checking off these boxes will help ensure you choose an eye care specialist who you can go back to for years to come.  

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What Does The LASIK Surgery Process Look Like?

LASIK Surgery Process

For many people who are considering LASIK surgery or laser vision correction, a major barrier can be anxiety and concerns over what the process will actually be like. It can sometimes be difficult to get consistent answers about what to expect. For that reason, The Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield has put together some information on what you can expect before, during, and after LASIK surgery. 

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3 Reasons To Consider LASIK Eye Treatment

If you are reading this, you probably currently wear glasses or contact lenses. While these are still incredible inventions, most of us can agree that they come with their own sets of inconveniences. Glasses cause headaches and general annoyance for many wearers, and contacts can cause a plethora of issues. They can lead to dry and itchy eyes as well as eye infections if not cared for properly. Additionally, you might just hate touching your eye! At The Holtebeck Eye Center in Brookfield, we offer a third option for eyesight correction: LASIK eye treatment. 

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