Abu Dhabi One man’s struggle with severe knee pain led him to discover the transformational care at Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi. This moving narrative follows his journey to regaining movement and living pain-free after knee replacement surgery. Join us as we learn about his journey and the outstanding orthopedic department at Medeor.

Discovering Medeor’s Orthopedic Department

When the 71-year-old American man sought medical help, he found solace in Medeor’s renowned orthopedic department. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Suresh Gopalan Vadakkoot, a highly skilled Senior Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon, he was introduced to the possibilities of spine surgery, arthroscopy, and joint replacement. Driven by a deep understanding of the man’s condition, Dr. Vadakkoot recommended knee replacement surgery as the optimal solution.

Embarking on a Journey of Hope

With each passing day, the man’s knee pain threatened to diminish his quality of life. However, Medeor Hospital, with its cutting-edge medical technology and experienced physicians, instilled hope within him. Believing in the transformative power of modern medicine, he embarked on a journey to regain his freedom from pain and restore his ability to move without limitations.

Compassionate Care and a Nurturing Environment

From the moment the man entered Medeor, he experienced the compassionate care provided by the dedicated staff at the hospital. The hospital’s warm and welcoming environment, coupled with personalized attention, offered him a sense of comfort and support throughout his treatment. Even the meals served during his stay contributed to his overall well-being, ensuring a holistic healing experience.

Successful Knee Replacement Surgery

Under the expert guidance of Dr. Vadakkoot and his skilled team, the patient underwent a successful left knee replacement surgery. Prior to the procedure, comprehensive check-ups were conducted to address any cardiac issues and diabetes, ensuring the best possible outcome. This meticulous approach further solidified his trust in Medeor’s orthopedic department, showcasing their commitment to patient safety and well-being.

A Supportive Family at Medeor

Being alone in Abu Dhabi, the man found a supportive family at Medeor. The compassionate staff, including the attentive nurses and expert doctors, became his pillars of strength throughout his journey. Medeor Hospital went above and beyond to ensure his physical and emotional well-being, making him feel cared for and supported during his recovery.

Embracing a Pain-Free Life

With the surgery behind him, the man now enjoys a life free from debilitating knee pain. The exceptional care provided by Medeor’s orthopedic department played a vital role in his successful recovery. Just one day after the surgery, he took his first triumphant steps, a testament to the transformative power of knee replacement surgery and the expertise of the medical team at Medeor.

Equipped with newfound hope and mobility, the American man continues to visit Medeor for regular check-ups. Inspired by his incredible journey, he now contemplates getting his right knee replaced, confident in the positive impact it will have on his quality of life. Medeor’s unwavering commitment to his well-being ensures they remain his trusted healthcare provider for orthopedic needs.

Advanced orthopedic care & compassionate support

The story of this 71-year-old American man’s journey at Medeor Hospital in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the power of advanced orthopedic care and compassionate support. Medeor’s orthopedic department combines state-of-the-art technology, skilled surgeons like Dr. Vadakkoot, and a nurturing environment to provide patients with transformative solutions for overcoming knee pain. As this man embraces a life free from limitations, his story is an inspiring example of the possibilities that await those seeking exceptional orthopedic care in the UAE.

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus. It can be caused by chronic constipation or diarrhea, but it can also happen after an injury to your anal area.

The pain associated with an anal fissure is often described as a sharp or burning sensation, which may worsen with bowel movements and when sitting on hard surfaces.

Anal fissures are typically treated with topical creams and ointments, but your doctor may recommend more invasive treatments, such as surgery if these don’t work.

What Causes an Anal Fissure?

Anal fissures are common, especially for people with hemorrhoids (swollen veins in the anus). Other causes of anal fissures include:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Heavy lifting
• Pregnancy
• Surgery on your bowels or anus

What are the Symptoms of an Anal Fissure?

The following is a list of symptoms that may indicate the presence of an anal fissure.

• Pain and tenderness in the anal area
• Bleeding from the rectum, which may occur when you pass stool
• A feeling of having not completely emptied your bowels after defecating
• A sensation that something is still inside your rectum after you have passed bowel movements

What are the Risk Factors for an Anal Fissure?

The risk factors for anal fissures include:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Straining during bowel movements
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Anal intercourse
• Contraction of HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted infections
• Any history of trauma to the area
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

What are the Complications of an Anal Fissure?

Anal fissures can be painful and lead to further complications if left untreated. Some of the complications include:

• Painful defecation
• Excessive bleeding
• Fecal incontinence (involuntary leakage of solid or liquid stool)
• Anal fistula
• Anal abscess 

How is it Diagnosed?

Anal fissures are usually diagnosed by your healthcare provider examining the anus and rectum. During the exam, they may use a mirror to look at the inside of their rectum. To diagnose an anal fissure, your healthcare provider will likely ask questions about your symptoms and past medical history. They may also want to know if you have had this problem before. Your doctor may also perform other tests to ensure you do not have other conditions causing similar symptoms. Your doctor may use one or more of the following tests to diagnose an anal fissure:

Rectal Exam: This test allows your healthcare provider to check for any abnormalities in or around the rectum, such as swelling or irritation.

Anoscopy (Proctoscopy): An anoscope is a thin tube with a light on its tip that allows your healthcare provider to look at the lining of your anus and rectum using magnification. This test can help identify any tears or inflammation in these areas. Stool Test: Your stool sample can be tested for blood or other signs of infection.

Sigmoidoscopy (looking inside the lower part of the colon with a flexible tube called a sigmoidoscope) to check the causes of bleeding from an anal fissure.

Colonoscopy involves inserting a flexible tube into your rectum to inspect the entire colon.

How is it Treated?

With appropriate home treatment, anal fissures can often heal within a few weeks. Increase your intake of fiber and fluids to help keep your stool soft. Soak in warm water for 10 to 20 minutes several times a day, especially after bowel movements. This can aid in sphincter relaxation and healing. If your symptoms persist, you will almost certainly require additional treatment. 

Nonsurgical treatments 

Your doctor may advise you to do the following: 

Nitroglycerin is applied externally (Rectiv). This can promote healing by increasing blood flow to the fissure. It can also help to relax the anal sphincter. When other conservative measures fail, nitroglycerin is widely regarded as the treatment of choice. Headaches, which can be severe, are possible side effects. 

Pain relief may be provided by topical anesthetic creams such as lidocaine (Xylocaine). 

Injection of onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) to paralyze the anal sphincter muscle and relax spasms. 

Blood pressure medications like nifedipine or diltiazem can help relax the anal sphincter. These medications are typically applied to the skin but can also be taken orally. However, when taken orally, the side effects can be more severe. These medications may be used when nitroglycerin is ineffective or causes significant side effects. 

Surgery 

If you have a chronic anal fissure that is not responding to other treatments, or if your symptoms are severe, your doctor may suggest surgery. A procedure known as lateral internal sphincterotomy is typically performed by doctors (LIS). A small portion of the anal sphincter muscle is cut during LIS. This technique may aid in the promotion of healing as well as the reduction of spasms and pain.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. These seizures can be very different from one another, with some only lasting a few seconds while others last minutes or hours. Epilepsy can be caused by injury to the brain, stroke, brain tumor, genetic mutation, or other factors. In some cases, there is no known cause of epilepsy.

Epilepsy is characterized by recurrent seizures that are unprovoked by an obvious external stimulus and result in abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The severity of these seizures varies widely among patients: some experience minor twitching or loss of awareness for just a few seconds, while others may experience more severe effects such as loss of consciousness and convulsions (shaking).

What are Seizures?

Seizures occur when there is an abnormal electrical discharge in the brain. This causes changes in how the brain functions, leading to a temporary loss of consciousness or control over body movements.

What are the Types of Seizures?

There are many different types of seizures. There are also many different ways to classify them.

There are two broad categories: generalized and partial.

Generalized seizures involve the entire brain, while partial seizures affect just one brain area.

These partial seizures can be further classified into simple and complex. Simple partial seizures occur in only one part of the brain, while complex partial seizures involve more than one part of the brain.

Simple partial seizures can be further divided into other groups, such as sensory, motor, autonomic and psychic. When someone has a seizure, there are two types: epileptic and non-epileptic.

An abnormal electrical discharge causes epileptic seizures in the brain caused by a genetic defect or other factors. In contrast, non-epileptic seizures are caused by another condition that mimics epilepsy but is unrelated to it (such as heart problems). To help determine what kind of seizure you may be experiencing, you should note how long it lasts, what part of your body it affects, and whether or not any other symptoms like headache or nausea/vomiting accompany it.

What are the Symptoms of Epilepsy?

Symptoms of epilepsy vary based on age and the brain area affected. They can include:

• facial twitches or tics
• loss of consciousness
• temporary loss of movement on one side of the body
• temporary inability to understand what’s being said or written
• loss of bladder control

How is Epilepsy Diagnosed?

The conditions required specialists to help make a diagnosis, including: 

Neurologist – An expert in disorders affecting the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord 

Neurosurgeon – A doctor who specializes in surgery on the brain, spinal cord, and nerves 

Psychiatrist – A doctor who treats mental health conditions

The diagnosis of epilepsy is made in two steps:

first, a doctor must rule out other possible causes of the seizures, such as a stroke or tumor; then, they will consider what kind of seizures you have and their frequency to determine whether or not you have epilepsy. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, including how often the seizures occur and what happens before, during, and after them. They may also want to know about any family history of epilepsy or other significant medical conditions. The doctor may also conduct tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms.

These tests can include an electroencephalogram (EEG), which measures electrical activity in the brain with electrodes attached to your scalp; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses radio waves and magnetic fields to generate detailed images of internal organs; and computed tomography scan (CT scan), which uses X-rays to create images of structures inside the body.

How is Epilepsy Treated?

There are many different ways to treat epilepsy, and a doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment for your specific condition. Here are some of the most common methods:

Medications – A doctor will prescribe medications to help control seizures. The medication prescribed depends on what type of seizure you have, as well as other factors such as age, medical history, and lifestyle. Some medications have side effects, so discuss these with your doctor before starting any new medication regimen.

Surgery – Sometimes, surgery is necessary to correct issues that cause seizures or worsen them (such as scar tissue on the brain). Surgery may also be used if there is no other way to control your seizures besides medication. The most common types of surgery include:

Removal of a portion of the brain causing seizures (called lobectomy). This surgery usually requires removing part or all of one hemisphere, depending on where the problem area is located within that hemisphere’s structure.

Removal or destruction (ablation) of a small area within area known as Broca’s area causes seizures in certain patients; this is done using stereotactic.

Why do I Need a Thyroid Antibodies Test?

The thyroid antibodies test is a blood test that checks for the presence of thyroid-damaging antibodies in your blood. 

What are Thyroid Antibodies? 

The thyroid gland is an important organ that regulates metabolism and protein synthesis in the body. Thyroid antibodies are proteins the immune system produces in response to thyroid tissue as an auto-immune manifestation. Autoimmune diseases are caused by the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking its tissues. Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) causes cellular damage and alters thyroid gland function. Autoimmune diseases are prevalent in the population, and AITD is one of the most common representatives. 

Alterations in thyroid gland function result from stimulating or blocking autoantibodies on the thyroid cells. Three principal thyroid auto-antigens are involved in AITD. These are thyroperoxidase (TPO), thyroglobulin (Tg), and the TSH receptor. 

Thyroid autoantibodies are frequently detected in patients with AITD and subjects without manifest thyroid dysfunction. 

TPOAb and/or TgAb are frequently present in the blood of patients with AITD. However, occasionally patients with AITD have negative thyroid autoantibody test results. TRAb is present in most patients with hyperthyroidism of Graves’ disease or a history of it. The presence of TRAb is a risk factor for potential thyroid dysfunction affecting the fetus or the newborn baby during pregnancy. 

What is a Thyroid Antibodies Test? 

A thyroid antibodies test is a laboratory test that measures the presence and levels of antibodies in the thyroid gland. The presence of thyroid antibodies is not necessarily an indicator of a problem—it can also be a typical result of infection, injury, or pregnancy. But when there is an increase in thyroid antibodies over time, it may indicate autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). 

The prevalence of thyroid autoantibodies is increased when patients have non-thyroid autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and pernicious anemia. Aging is also associated with the appearance of thyroid autoantibodies and increased prevalence of AITD. The clinical significance of low levels of thyroid autoantibodies in euthyroid subjects is still unknown, but high TPOAb is likely to be a risk factor for future thyroid dysfunction.

What are the Different Types of Thyroid Antibodies?

Several different types of antibodies can be present in the thyroid. The most common are, 

Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase (anti-TPO): 

Anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) is an antibody found in some people with Hashimoto’s disease, the commonest form of AITD. The autoimmune-mediated inflammation in this AITD eventually leads to hypothyroidism. These antibodies do not necessarily mean that you will develop hypothyroidism. It is still significant, even in those with normal thyroid function, since women with this antibody could have recurrent miscarriages. Hence gynecologists regularly test their patients for this. Anti-TPO could be positive in Graves’s disease as well.  

Anti-Thyroglobulin (anti-Tg): 

Anti-Thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) autoantibody is important because occasional cases with Hashimoto’s disease could have only the Anti-Tg positive; the anti-TPO could be negative. Anti-Tg could be positive in Graves’s disease as well. In addition, the anti-Tg is a useful test in the monitoring and follow-up of treated cases of thyroid cancer. 

TSH Receptor Autoantibodies (TRAb) 

The TSH Receptor Autoantibodies (TRAb) bind to the site of action of the TSH (from the pituitary gland) at the thyroid cells. Such antibodies could either stimulate or block thyroid function. The presence of TRAb may distinguish Graves’ disease from other causes of thyrotoxicosis – such as subacute or post-partum thyroiditis and toxic nodular goiter. 

When Should I Get the Test? 

The thyroid antibody test is used to detect your body’s response to a breakdown in the thyroid gland. It can diagnose or rule out autoimmune thyroid diseases (such as Hashimoto’s and Graves’s).  

Untreated AITD could lead to abnormal blood lipids, blood pressure, heart disease, and neurological complications. Hence early diagnosis is desirable to prevent complications and irreversible sequels.  

The most common reason you might get the thyroid antibody test is that your doctor suspects you have an autoimmune thyroid condition. Still, they usually will need more information before diagnosing it.  

• Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Disease: 
  • Fatigue 
  • Weight gain and swelling 
  • Constipation  
  • Muscle aches and weakness 
  • Tingling on the hands 
  • Hyperlipidemia 
• Symptoms of Grave’s Disease 
  • A bulging eye  
  • Weight loss despite increased appetite  
  • Excessive sweating 
  • Tachycardia or palpitations 
  • Tremors or muscle spasms in the hands and feet

What Happens During the Test? 

A healthcare professional will draw blood from your arm during a thyroid antibodies test. The blood will then be sent to a lab where it is tested for antibodies that can indicate autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). The test results are returned to your doctor, who will review them and determine if further evaluation or treatment is needed. 

What do the Results Mean?

Your findings could indicate one of the following: 

Negative: There were no thyroid antibodies discovered. This suggests that your thyroid issues are probably not brought on by an autoimmune condition. 

Positive TPO or Tg antibodies. You may have Hashimoto’s disease if this is the case. 

Most sufferers of Hashimoto’s disease have high concentrations of either one or both anti-TPO, antiTg. 

Positive TSH receptor antibodies. You may have Graves disease if this is the case. 

The thyroid Antibodies Test is one of the most accurate and efficient methods for identifying potential thyroid problems. It is a way to identify potential issues before they actually develop.  

What is Prostate Cancer? 

Prostate cancer is cancer that starts in the prostate gland. The prostate gland is located below the bladder, in front of the rectum.  

It produces a fluid that makes up part of semen. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that surrounds part of the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body).  

The urethra passes through the center of the prostate gland. It usually starts in cells in one or more areas of this gland. 

It is the most common cancer in men and the second most common cause of death from cancer among men. 

What Causes Prostate Cancer? 

The exact cause is unknown. It’s believed that many factors may contribute to its development, including age, race/ethnicity, family history and genetics, diet and nutrition, weight gain and obesity, physical activity level, smoking history, and alcohol consumption patterns. 

What are the Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer? 

The risk factors include: 

Age: Prostate cancer is more common in men over 50.  

Ethnicity: African-American men have a higher incidence than white men.  

Asian men have a lower rate of prostate cancer than white or African American men.  

Family History: Men who have a father or brother with prostate cancer are at greater risk for  

developing it themselves.  

Diet: A diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of developing the condition by up to 30 percent over 20 years. 

Obesity: Obesity increases your risk of developing several types of cancer, including prostate cancer. 

What are the Signs & Symptoms of Prostate Cancer? 

The signs and symptoms can vary from man to man. Some men may never experience symptoms, while others may notice changes in their urinary habits or sexual function. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include: 

• Frequent urination, especially at night 

• Weak or interrupted urine flow 
• Difficulty starting urination or holding back urine 
• A feeling that you have to urinate right away; an urgent need to urinate, even if it’s not full 
• Blood in your urine or semen 

How is it Diagnosed?  

The most common test to diagnose the condition is a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. The PSA test measures the level of PSA in a man’s blood, which can indicate the presence of prostate cancer. If your doctor orders this test and it returns positive, they will order additional tests to determine whether or not you have cancer. Other tests that may be used to diagnose prostate cancer include:  

Digital rectal exam (DRE): In this exam, your doctor will insert a gloved finger into your rectum and feel for lumps or irregularities. This test is often uncomfortable and invasive, but it can be very effective at helping doctors determine whether or not there is something wrong with your prostate gland.  

A prostate biopsy involves removing a tissue sample from your prostate gland so a pathologist can examine it under a microscope. You may need further treatment, such as surgery or radiation therapy if abnormal cells are present. 

How is it Treated? 

Treatment options include: 

Surgery: Surgery removes all or part of the prostate gland. This can be done through either open surgery or a minimally invasive procedure called robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALP).  

Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancerous cells in your prostate gland. It also helps relieve symptoms caused by the condition.  

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and dividing. During chemotherapy, you’ll receive medicine intravenously (through an IV line) by injection into a vein or under your skin (topical).  

Hormone Therapy: Hormonal therapy blocks the production of male hormones, which reduce testosterone levels in men with advanced prostate cancer. Hormonal treatments include medications such as leuprolide acetate and flutamide; topical gels; injections into muscle, and pellets implanted under the skin that slowly release hormones over time. 

Early detection is key to surviving prostate cancer. The earlier the diagnosis, the more effective the treatment can be. At Medeor Hospital, Our team of board-certified urologists and a multi-disciplinary team of experts at Medeor Hospital UAE are equipped with the latest diagnostic technology to provide the most advanced care for treating prostate cancer.  

Diabetic Nephropathy is a disease that develops in the kidneys when they are damaged by diabetes. It is characterized by increased protein in the urine and, eventually, kidney failure. 

How does Diabetes Cause Kidney Damage? 

When you have diabetes, your body cannot regulate blood sugar levels as well as it should. This causes high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) that can damage your kidneys over time. High blood sugar levels cause oxidative stress and inflammation in your body. These processes contribute to kidney damage by damaging the blood vessels that supply blood to your kidneys and impairing their function overall.  Over time, this damage can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). 

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetic Nephropathy?  

The symptoms of diabetic nephropathy include:  

• Blood in the urine (hematuria) 
• Swelling in the legs and feet (edema) 
• Painful urination (dysuria) 

• Frequent urination (polyuria) 

What Are the Different Types of Diabetic Nephropathy? 

There are different types of diabetic nephropathy:  

Acute tubular necrosis – This type of diabetic nephropathy occurs when there is damage to the small blood vessels within the kidneys.  

Fibrosing glomerulopathy – This type of diabetic nephropathy involves scarring and thickening of the walls of the tiny blood vessels that filter waste from your body, which leads to kidney failure.  

Nephrotic syndrome – This diabetic nephropathy involves excessive protein loss in urine because of damaged kidney filters. 

What Are the Different Stages of Diabetic Nephropathy? 

The stages of diabetic nephropathy are broken down by the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is the amount of water filtered from your blood each minute by your kidneys. A normal GFR is around 120 mL/min per 1.73 m2 body surface area.  

Stage 1: Kidney damage present but normal kidney function and a GFR of 90% or above.  

Stage 2: Kidney damage with some loss of function and a GFR of 60–89%.  

Stage 3: Mild to severe loss of function and a GFR of 30–59%. 

Stage 4: Severe loss of function and GFR of 15–29%.  

Stage 5: Kidney failure and a GFR of under 15%. 

What Are the Risk Factors?

The risk factors of diabetic nephropathy include:  

• High blood glucose levels 
• Obesity and being overweight  
• Hypertension (high blood pressure) Hyperlipidemia (high triglycerides and low levels of HDL cholesterol) 
• Insulin resistance 

How is it Diagnosed? 

Diabetic Nephropathy is diagnosed through lab tests, physical exams, and imaging.  

Lab tests will include a urine test and a blood test. The urine test will check for protein in the urine. 

If there is a protein in the urine, it could be a sign of this condition. 

The blood test will check your kidney function. This can also help detect if you have the condition or are getting worse. 

Your nephrologist may also order an imaging test like an ultrasound or CT scan to look at your kidneys and see how well they work if they are suspected of being damaged by diabetes. 

How is it Treated? 

It is treated with several different medications and therapies.  

First, your doctor will want to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.  

If necessary, they may prescribe medication to control these factors. 

Second, your doctor may recommend that you lose weight and exercise regularly.  

If you cannot manage this independently, the doctor may refer you to a dietician or physical therapist for assistance.  

Third, if necessary, the physician will suggest that you take medications such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs. These drugs can help prevent or slow down damage to your kidneys.  

Finally, if none of these effective treatments control your symptoms, the doctor may recommend dialysis or kidney transplantation. 

Everyone with diabetes is at risk for diabetic nephropathy. Early diagnosis and treatment could mean the difference between kidney failure and a normal, healthy life. 

Our board-certified nephrologists at Medeor Hospital, UAE, have the experience, skill, and knowledge to treat all stages of diabetic nephropathy.  

They will help you understand your condition and develop a treatment plan that works for you to help you manage your condition and keep your kidneys healthy. 

Diabetic eye disease is a complication that’s common in people with diabetes. It can lead to vision loss or even blindness. There are four major types of diabetic eye disease:  

Diabetic Retinopathy  

It is the most common form of diabetic eye disease. It causes blood vessels in the retina to leak or swell, leading to blurred vision and even blindness.  

Diabetic Macular Edema 

It occurs when fluid builds up under the macula (the part of your retina responsible for seeing fine details). This can cause blurred vision or loss of central vision.  

Glaucoma 

It is a condition where increased pressure inside the eye gradually damages the optic nerve, causing loss of peripheral vision and eventually blindness. 

Cataracts 

They are clouds that develop over the lens of your eye—they make it harder to see clearly because they blur your vision and make colors less vibrant. 

How Does Diabetes Affect My Eyes? 

Diabetes affects your eyes in many ways. The most common symptom is blurry vision, which can cause dry eyes, cataracts, and macular degeneration. 

How Common is Diabetic Eye Disease? 

Diabetic eye disease is very common, with approximately 70% of people who have diabetes developing some form of eye disease. The risk of developing it increases with age, duration of diabetes, and blood sugar control. 

Who is More Likely to Develop Diabetic Eye Disease? 

People who are at high risk for diabetic eye disease include:  

• People with type 1 diabetes 
• People with type 2 diabetes who have had diabetes for more than 15 years  
• Those who have had a previous eye infection or surgery 
• Those with a family history of eye disease, especially retinopathy, glaucoma, or cataracts  
• People who have high blood pressure  
• People who have high cholesterol 

What are the Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease? 

Symptoms of diabetic eye disease include: 

• Blurred vision 
• Excessive tearing or redness 
• Pain or pressure in your eyes 
• Distorted vision 
• Spots or floaters (tiny dots that appear in your field of vision) 

When Should You See a Doctor? 

If you have any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately: 

• Vision changes such as blurriness, loss of side vision, or double vision 
• Feeling like there’s something in your eye 
• Pain in your eyes or extreme dryness 
• Redness or swelling around the eyes 
• Increased sensitivity to light 

How Do Doctors Diagnose Eye Problems from Diabetes? 

An ophthalmologist often diagnoses diabetic eye disease. They use a variety of tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and whether they are related to diabetes.  

Visual Acuity Test measures how well you see at different distances. You will be asked to read letters on an eye chart at different distances.  

Slit Lamp Examination – this test uses light from a microscope to inspect the inside of your eyes. It helps doctors identify changes caused by diabetes that may be causing vision problems. It also allows them to look for signs of other diseases, such as glaucoma or cataracts, that could affect your vision if left untreated. 

How do Doctors Treat Diabetic Eye Disease? 

Fortunately, several treatments for diabetic eye disease can help you get your vision back on track.  

Medicine – Doctors often prescribe medications to help reduce the chances of vision loss from diabetic eye disease. These medicines can be taken as pills or injections. Some are injected directly into the eye, and others are taken orally as pills. 

Laser Treatment – If you have diabetic retinopathy (DR), laser treatment may help prevent further damage to your retina by slowing down or stopping bleeding from small blood vessels in your eye. However, even if laser treatment stops bleeding from these blood vessels and prevents further vision loss from DR, it will not reverse any existing damage done by other symptoms, such as floaters or flashes of light in your vision (called photopsia). 

Vitrectomy: A vitrectomy is an operation that removes fluid from inside your eyeball (called vitreous humor) and replaces it with saline solution so that your retina can be examined under magnification for signs of injury caused by diabetes. 

Cataract Lens Surgery: There are two types of cataract surgery: phacoemulsification and extracapsular extraction (ECCE). These surgeries use different lenses to replace cloudy ones in the eye.  

Phacoemulsification uses ultrasonic energy to break the lens into small pieces removed with suction. 

ECCE uses scissors to remove the outer part of the lens capsule and any fragments that may have broken off during surgery. Both procedures take less than 30 minutes. 

After surgery, patients will need glasses or contact lenses until their vision improves enough for them to see well without them. 

What Can I Do to Protect My Eyes? 

You can do several things to protect your eyes if you have diabetes.  

First, it’s important to keep your blood glucose levels on target. High blood glucose can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, increasing your risk of eye disease.  

Second, get regular eye exams as part of your diabetes management plan—at least once a year. If you have diabetes, it’s especially important to catch eye problems early because they can lead to vision loss.  

Third, wear comfortable glasses and sunglasses outdoors, even on cloudy days. UV light can still damage your eyes even when the skies are gray or overcast. 

In Conclusion, diabetic eye disease is a serious issue that can cause significant damage to your vision and your quality of life. If you believe you may have a diabetic eye disease. If you or someone you know is suffering from diabetic eye disease, it’s important to seek help from an ophthalmologist.  

Our expert team of ophthalmologists and diabetes experts offers a wide range of services, from diagnosis and treatment to prevention and follow-up care, so that you can continue to live life without worrying about the potential health risks associated with diabetes. 

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy. It affects about 1 in every 20 pregnant women and can put both the mother and baby at risk. If you have gestational diabetes, your doctor will monitor your blood sugar levels throughout your pregnancy to keep them within a healthy range. 

What are the Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes? 

If you’re pregnant, it’s important to know the signs of gestational diabetes, which can affect you and your baby. Be aware of the symptoms because it can affect you and your baby. Symptoms include:  

• Fatigue Increased urination  
• Blurred vision or blurry vision 
• Increased thirst 

What Causes Gestational Diabetes? 

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is unknown, but it may be linked to genetics, obesity, and high blood pressure. 

What are the Risk Factors of Gestational Diabetes? 

The risk factors for include: 

• Being overweight or obese 
• Not being physically active 
• Having prediabetes 
• Having had the condition during a previous pregnancy 
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome 
• Having an immediate family member with diabetes 
• Having previously delivered a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (4.1 kilograms) 

What are the Complications of Gestational Diabetes?  

Gestational diabetes can cause several complications for both mother and child. These include, 

• Excessive birth weight 
• Early (preterm) birth 
• Serious breathing difficulties 
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) 
• Obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life 
• Stillbirth 

How can Gestational Diabetes be Prevented? 

It can be prevented, but the only way to do so is to make healthy lifestyle choices before you become pregnant.  

If you’ve had the condition, it is especially important to make these changes to reduce your risk of having it again in future pregnancies or developing type 2 diabetes.  

Eating healthy foods and keeping active are two of the best ways to prevent the condition.  

You should also start pregnancy at a healthy weight and avoid gaining more weight than recommended during pregnancy. 

How is it Diagnosed? 

It’s diagnosed by measuring blood glucose levels and performing an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).  

In an OGTT, the patient drinks a sugar solution and has their blood sugar levels measured before and after two hours.  

If the patient’s blood sugar level is above 140 mg/dL after two hours, they are diagnosed with the condition. 

How is it Treated? 

It is treated with a combination of diet and exercise. The goal of treatment is to keep blood sugar levels within normal limits. A healthy diet and proper exercise can help keep your blood sugar level within normal limits. Your healthcare provider will give you specific guidelines on what foods to eat and how much exercise to do.  

Your doctor may also prescribe oral medications or insulin injections if these lifestyle changes do not work well enough to control your blood sugar levels. 

If you or someone you know is pregnant and suffering from this condition, the obstetricians and gynecologists at Medeor Hospital, UAE, provide treatment and management of gestational diabetes. Our specialists are trained to meet the needs of women diagnosed with the condition through nutritional changes, medication, and blood glucose monitoring. 

In addition to providing general obstetric care, we also focus on treating specific complications that may arise in women with gestational diabetes. If you think you might have the condition, talk to our expert about getting tested for it. Early detection and treatment are crucial to ensuring a healthy pregnancy and baby. 

Diabetes is a disease that can affect anyone, even people who don’t have a family history of it. Here are ten surprising facts about diabetes: 

More than 500 million globally have diabetes. According to International Diabetes Federation  

• Approximately 537 million adults (20-79 years) are living with diabetes. 
• The total number of people living with diabetes is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. 
• 3 in 4 adults with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries 
• Almost 1 in 2 (240 million) adults living with diabetes are undiagnosed 
• Diabetes caused 6.7 million deaths 
• Diabetes caused at least 966 billion dollars in health expenditure – 9% of total spending on adults 
• More than 1.2 million children and adolescents (0-19 years) are living with type 1 diabetes 
• 1 in 6 live births (21 million) is affected by diabetes during pregnancy 
• 541 million adults are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes 

People with diabetes are much more likely to develop heart disease. 

According to a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, people with Type 2 diabetes are about 50% more likely to develop heart disease than people without diabetes. 

Diabetes can increase your risk of heart disease in several ways. It increases blood coagulation and inflammation and can damage the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. These processes can cause atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), leading to coronary artery disease and heart attacks. 

Diabetes is a risk factor for eye disease, including macular degeneration and cataracts. 

Macular degeneration occurs when the central part of the retina—the macula—is damaged. The macula is responsible for sharp vision, making it essential to your ability to see clearly.  

Cataracts are another common eye disease that can develop in people with diabetes. Cataracts are clouding of the lens inside your eye, which interferes with light passing through it and reaching your retina. 

Diabetes can cause serious kidney damage. 

Diabetes is a chronic condition that can cause serious damage to your kidneys. 

If you have diabetes, you may experience kidney disease if you don’t manage your blood sugar levels and get regular checkups with your doctor. 

The most common type of kidney disease associated with diabetes is called diabetic nephropathy. 

This form of kidney disease is characterized by the gradual loss of functional nephrons—the tiny filters in your kidneys that help remove waste products from your blood.  

As more functional nephrons are lost, the remaining nephrons must work harder to perform the filtering process. 

If left untreated, diabetic nephropathy can lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which requires dialysis or kidney transplantation to replace lost kidney function. 

Diabetes affects the nervous system. 

Diabetes can affect the nervous system in several ways. First, it may cause nerve damage, leading to numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. This is called peripheral neuropathy. 

Second, diabetes can cause damage to the nerves that control digestion and other functions of the gastrointestinal tract—autonomic neuropathy. 

Third, diabetes can affect your nerves’ ability to send signals to your brain—called sensorimotor polyneuropathy. 

Skin problems are a common complication of diabetes. 

Skin problems are a common complication of diabetes. Diabetes can affect your skin in many ways, including causing dryness and irritation, which makes it more difficult to maintain healthy skin. Skin problems caused by diabetes include: 

• Dry skin. People with diabetes often have dry skin because their bodies don’t produce enough oil called sebum. Sebum helps keep your skin moisturized and healthy. 
• Itching. This can be caused by dryness or high blood sugar levels. 
• Blisters or sores on the feet and toes (foot ulcers). These are usually caused by nerve damage, which happens when your blood sugar levels are too high for a long time. 

Approximately 1 in 4 people diagnosed with diabetes don’t know they have it. 

Approximately 1 in 4 people diagnosed with diabetes don’t know they have it. This means they may not control their blood glucose levels or even know what their blood glucose levels are supposed to be! The best way to determine if you have diabetes is to get tested by your doctor as soon as possible. 

Foot pain that doesn’t go away can be a sign of diabetes or peripheral arterial disease. 

If you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or both, foot pain is a common complaint. And while it’s often related to other issues like nerve damage and circulation problems (both of which can be treated), sometimes it can signal something more serious: a heart problem. 

One or both of these conditions could cause foot pain that doesn’t go away. If you experience persistent foot pain in one or both feet that aren’t relieved by rest or over-the-counter medications, talk to your doctor about what might be causing it.  

Diabetes is more common than you think, so it’s important to understand how to manage it if you have it or how you can prevent it if you don’t. At Medeor Hospital, our multi-disciplinary team of board-certified experts is committed to helping you manage your diabetes to live a long, healthy life.