Diabetic retinopathy is among the leading causes of vision loss in a patient with diabetes. This eye condition arises when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels within the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. As serious as the condition can be, the alarming fact is that most patients might suffer from diabetic retinopathy, as it is often undiagnosed and unrecognized, especially when it is still in the early stages.
At Tandon Eye Hospital, we believe that it is important to spread awareness regarding this silent yet significant eye risk. Here’s everything you need to know about diabetic retinopathy and why routine eye care is important for anyone with diabetes.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease resulting from a long duration of high blood sugar, which damages and weakens the small blood vessels in the retina. These weakened vessels of the retina, eventually ruptured, which may lead to leakage or swelling of fluid, affecting the retina’s normal working process. In the later stages, abnormal blood vessels grow over the retina and severely impair the patient’s vision, sometimes resulting in permanent blindness.
Can You Have Diabetic Retinopathy Without Symptoms?
Yes, it is a common fact that diabetic retinopathy develops asymptomatic in the early stages. So, it’s sometimes called the “silent” disease. The early stage has no vision disturbances, so it goes unnoticed.
Later stages may exhibit some of these symptoms:
● Blurry vision
● Obstacles in reading or identifying far objects
● Dark spots or floaters
● Cobweb-like streaks
● Poor vision at night
If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to serious complications, such as macular edema, retinal detachment, and even blindness.
How Common Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes. Research has indicated that almost 1 in 3 people suffering from diabetes will develop some form of diabetic retinopathy. What is more alarming is that many individuals may not even be aware that they have diabetes until an eye examination reveals signs of retinopathy. This makes regular eye exams important for everyone, especially for those at risk of diabetes.
Are You at Risk?
If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, you are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Several factors increase your chances of developing this condition:
● Duration of Diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, the greater you are at risk.
● Blood Sugar Levels: Poorly regulated blood sugar severely increases the possibility of complications like diabetic retinopathy.
● Pregnancy: Pregnant women with diabetes or those who develop gestational diabetes have a higher risk.
● Other Conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking can also increase the risk.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?
The treatment for diabetic retinopathy varies with the level of severity and how it affects your vision. Treatment may include the following:
– Injections into the eyes: Anti-VEGF injections can slow or stop the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina.
– Laser Treatment: A laser can seal leaking blood vessels and prevent further damage to the retina.
– Advanced Cases: When scar tissue or blood is removed from the eye, a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy may be necessary.
Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes and protect your vision.
Why Routine Eye Exams Are Essential
Since diabetic retinopathy may progress without noticeable symptoms, it is essential to have regular comprehensive eye exams. Our retina specialists at Tandon Eye Hospital utilize advanced diagnostic tools to detect early signs of the condition even before symptoms appear.
We advocate for individuals suffering from either diabetes or prediabetes to be screened by a comprehensive eye exam annually. Pregnant women with diabetes are advised to make an appointment to have their eyes checked during their pregnancy.
Protect Your Vision with Tandon Eye Hospital
Tandon Eye Hospital believes in helping you preserve your vision and maintain quality of life. If you are diabetic or just concerned about eye health, then do not wait for symptoms to appear. The earlier the detection and management of diabetic retinopathy, the better the chances of preventing further complications.
Call us today to schedule your eye exam
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Your eyes deserve the best care—because seeing the world clearly is priceless.
