Question
I read in Prevention Magazine, this month, about an experimental device that your eye doctor may soon be able to check for early signs of uncontrolled blood sugar levels and Type 2 Diabetes. This device is called,Accu-Chek D-Tector, and measures certain compounds that build up more quickly in the eyes of those with high blood sugar levels than in the eyes of those with normal levels. This test will take less than 30 seconds.
If you tested abnormal with it, you would have to be followed up with more specific tests. If everything goes ok with the current clinical trials, this machine could reach the market later this year. Interesting isn't it??? Sibyl
Answer
If the instrument works as touted it will be great! Certainly enchance the early detection of this wicked disease.
Detection of diabetic retinopathy has been done for years via opthalmoscopy, but in general it was really only done by Ophthalmologists, though many Optometrists have begun enhancing their diagnostic prowess by increasing their medical knowledge. If the device you mentioned proves viable, then it will help all professionals check their patients....maybe even via "free screenings" that don't require large outputs of funds for a short visit to the doctors office. Even still the cost of a visit is far less than damage to the eyes.....
Answer
I hope this device pans out. What an easy way to be tested. No needles, no unnecessary repeat Dr.s appts., for various diagnostic tests.
My only question is....How advanced must the disease be before detection utilizing this scan? Hopefully it will detect the onset early, before the damage is done.
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Answer
It should also be born in mind that "floaters" in the eye can signify diabetes. Those are the little strings of cells which seem to drift across the eye when you blink.
A "cinder" sensation in the eye (generally one eye) in the morning, which goes away, and a "haze" around a lightbulb (which goes away after exercise of fasting) are suggestive of an insulin utilization syndrome.