What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
People with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic retinopathy is a common diabetic eye disease that can lead to vision loss or blindness. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina, causing them to weaken, swell, and leak blood or fluid into the surrounding tissue.
In the early stages, these changes may affect only small areas of the retina, but as the disease progresses, damaged blood vessels can close off and restrict blood flow. In response, the eye may grow abnormal new blood vessels that are fragile, prone to bleeding, and unable to provide the retina with the healthy circulation it needs. Because the retina is responsible for converting light into signals sent to the brain, damage at any stage of diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision problems and, if left untreated, permanent vision loss.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy typically starts slowly with little to no symptoms in the early stages. By the time it starts to impact your vision, the disease will be in a later stage of development. Regular eye exams are critical to detecting this disease early so treatment can be administered and vision preserved.
If you are diabetic and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact our diabetic eye doctors in Southeast Idaho immediately:
- Dark spots
- Floaters or strings in vision
- Vision loss
- Blurry vision
- Changes in color perception
Early Detection Matters
Regular eye exams are critical to detecting this disease early so treatment can be administered and vision preserved.
Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy
Not all cases of diabetic retinopathy require treatment. However, if the disease is affecting your vision or showing signs of progression, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
01
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment: Seals leaking blood vessels and helps reduce abnormal blood vessel growth.
02
Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy: Removes blood, scar tissue, and other debris from the vitreous gel inside the eye.
03
Medications
Medications: Steroid or anti-VEGF injections may help reduce swelling and prevent abnormal blood vessel growth.
Protecting Your Vision
Healthy Daily Management
In addition to treatment, maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and managing blood pressure can help reduce your risk of developing or worsening diabetic retinopathy.
- Maintain healthy blood sugar levels
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a balanced diet
- Manage blood pressure
Regular Eye Exams
If you have diabetes, Idaho Eye and Laser Center recommends a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year, even if you are not experiencing vision changes. Regular eye exams can detect diabetic retinopathy in its earliest stages, often before symptoms develop. If you have been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, our eye doctors will create a personalized treatment and monitoring plan to help protect your vision.
If you have diabetes and are experiencing blurred vision, floaters, dark spots, or other changes in your sight, contact us right away for a comprehensive eye evaluation.