VIDEO: ODs may be first to diagnose diabetes, hypertension
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LAS VEGAS – Optometrists are on the front lines of diagnosing many systemic conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, Sherrol A. Reynolds, OD, FAAO, said during Vision Expo West.
“In the last few years, optometrists have diagnosed about 500,000 patients with diabetes,” she told Healio. “In a disproportionate number of patients, the retinal signs can be the first indication that a patient has diabetes.”
She noted that the American Diabetes Association is suggesting a new term for diabetic retinopathy: diabetes-related retinal disease.
Patients can also have ocular signs that indicate undiagnosed hypertension, Reynolds said. New guidelines specify 130/80 mm Hg as hypertensive blood pressure, as opposed to the previously established pressure of 140/90 mm Hg.
“We are a key part of the health care team in making this diagnosis,” she said.
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Reynolds SA. COVID-19, diabetes, hypertension and racial health disparities. Presented at: Vision Expo West; Las Vegas; Sept. 14-17, 2022.
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