Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. High blood sugar levels can damage these blood vessels, causing them to leak fluid or bleed, which can distort vision. In advanced stages, new, abnormal blood vessels can grow on the retina, further compromising vision.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

• Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR):

  • The early stage, also known as background retinopathy, where blood vessels in the retina weaken, causing tiny bulges (microaneurysms) that may leak fluid or blood. NPDR may cause mild or no symptoms.

• Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR):

  • The more advanced stage, characterized by the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels on the retina and the vitreous gel inside the eye. These vessels can bleed into the vitreous, leading to severe vision problems or blindness. PDR can also cause scar tissue, leading to retinal detachment.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms may include:

• Blurred Vision: Distorted or blurry vision can occur as blood vessels leak into the retina.
• Dark Spots or Floaters: Seeing spots or floaters, which are caused by bleeding from abnormal blood vessels.
• Fluctuating Vision: Sudden changes in vision clarity.
• Impaired Color Vision: Difficulty distinguishing colors.
• Vision Loss: In advanced stages, significant vision loss or blindness can occur.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of diabetic retinopathy is chronic high blood sugar levels, which can damage the blood vessels in the retina. Risk factors include:

• Duration of Diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, the greater the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
• Poor Blood Sugar Control: Inadequate management of blood sugar levels increases the risk.
• High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: These conditions can exacerbate the damage to retinal blood vessels.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women with diabetes may experience worsening retinopathy.
• Smoking: Smoking can contribute to vascular damage and worsen diabetic complications.

Diagnosis of Diabetic Retinopathy

Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting diabetic retinopathy, especially for individuals with diabetes. Our eye care professionals will perform several tests, including:

• Dilated Eye Exam: Allows a detailed examination of the retina and blood vessels.
• Fluorescein Angiography: A dye is injected into your arm, and photos of your retina are taken to detect leaking blood vessels.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina to identify swelling, fluid accumulation, and other abnormalities.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy

• Managing Diabetes:

  • Tight control of blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol is crucial to prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy.

• Medications:

  • Anti-VEGF Injections: These medications help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and swelling in the retina.
  • Steroid Injections: Used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the retina.

• Laser Treatment:

  • Focal Laser Treatment: Seals leaking blood vessels and reduces fluid buildup in the retina.
  • Panretinal Photocoagulation: Shrinks abnormal blood vessels and prevents their growth.

• Vitrectomy:

  • A surgical procedure to remove blood and scar tissue from the vitreous and retina, used in cases of severe bleeding or retinal detachment.

• Lifestyle Changes:

  • Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking can support overall health and help manage diabetes.

Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy

• Regular Eye Exams: Annual comprehensive eye exams are essential for early detection and monitoring.
• Blood Sugar Management: Keep your blood sugar levels within your target range.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Adopting a balanced diet, exercising, and avoiding smoking can help protect your eyes.