Diabetic Retinopathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that develops as a complication of diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness.
Individuals with diabetes are 20 times more likely to experience vision impairment compared to those without the condition, making regular eye check-ups essential. As the most common diabetes-related eye disease, diabetic retinopathy is also a leading cause of blindness among diabetics.
What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?
The retina plays a crucial role in vision by converting light into signals that are sent to the brain for interpretation. To function properly, the retina relies on a network of tiny blood vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients. However, diabetes can weaken and damage these vessels, disrupting the retina’s ability to process visual information.
Diabetic retinopathy progresses in stages:
Background Diabetic Retinopathy (Early Stage) – Mild retinal changes occur, but vision may not yet be affected.
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (Advanced Stage) – Blood vessels in the retina begin to swell and leak fluid or blood. In severe cases, this can lead to diabetic maculopathy, a condition that causes significant vision impairment.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable vision changes. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms may include:
Blurry or distorted vision
Dark spots or floaters in your field of vision
Difficulty seeing at night
Sudden vision loss in severe cases
Because diabetic retinopathy can progress without obvious symptoms, regular eye exams are critical for early detection and treatment.
Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy
When detected early, treatment can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss. Depending on the severity of the condition, options may include:
Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation) – A laser is used to seal or shrink leaking blood vessels, preventing further damage to the retina. This treatment is primarily aimed at preserving central vision.
Anti-VEGF Injections – Medications are injected into the eye to reduce swelling and prevent fluid leakage, helping to slow the progression of the disease.
Vitrectomy (Surgical Treatment) – In advanced cases, surgery may be required to remove blood and scar tissue from the retina.
Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy
Managing diabetes effectively is the best way to reduce the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. This includes:
✔ Maintaining stable blood sugar levels to prevent damage to blood vessels
✔ Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol within healthy ranges
✔ Quitting smoking, as it significantly increases the risk of vision loss
✔ Scheduling regular eye exams with an optometrist for early detection and management
If you have diabetes or are experiencing any vision changes, book an appointment with an eye specialist as soon as possible. Early intervention is key to preserving your sight.