What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious eye condition caused by diabetes that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. High blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss and blindness if left untreated.
Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy
- High blood sugar levels – Prolonged uncontrolled diabetes weakens retinal blood vessels.
- High blood pressure & cholesterol – Increases damage to blood vessels in the eyes.
- Long-term diabetes – The longer a person has diabetes, the higher the risk.
- Smoking – Worsens blood vessel damage in diabetics.
- Pregnancy & Kidney Disease – Increases the risk of developing retinopathy.
Types & Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
1. Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR) – Early Stage
- Small retinal blood vessels leak fluid or blood, causing swelling.
- Microaneurysms (tiny bulges in blood vessels) appear.
- May have no symptoms at this stage.
2. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR) – Advanced Stage
- New, abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina, which can rupture and cause bleeding inside the eye (vitreous hemorrhage).
- Can lead to scar tissue formation, retinal detachment, and blindness.
- Severe vision loss is common if untreated.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters in vision
- Poor night vision
- Colors appear faded or washed out
- Sudden vision loss in advanced cases
Diagnosis of Diabetic Retinopathy
- Dilated Eye Exam – Doctor examines the retina for signs of damage.
- Fluorescein Angiography – A dye test to detect leaking blood vessels.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – High-resolution scan of the retina to detect swelling.
Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy
Early detection is key to preventing vision loss!
- Blood Sugar & Blood Pressure Control – Managing diabetes slows progression.
- Anti-VEGF Injections (For Advanced Cases) – Medications like Eylea, Lucentis, or Avastin stop abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce swelling.
- Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation) – Seals leaking blood vessels and prevents further damage.
- Vitrectomy Surgery – Removes blood and scar tissue from the eye in severe cases.
Importance of Regular Eye Examinations
People with diabetes should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. Early detection can prevent 95% of vision loss from diabetic retinopathy.
