Diabetic Retinopathy

Retinopathy is the most common eye disorder among diabetics; non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy is an early form of the condition. Increased levels of blood glucose and high blood pressure for a longer time can damage the blood vessels of the retina. This can cause the retina to leak fluid including blood. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness.

Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy may not affect vision in the early stages but if left untreated, it can degenerate into proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In this second stage, the blood vessels of the retina stop functioning. In response, the retina grows new blood vessels; however, they are not strong enough to supply enough blood to the retina. The new blood vessels can also blur or block vision. If the condition worsens further the retina can become detached from the eye, which may cause permanent blindness.

It is recommended that diabetics undergo regular eye exams to ensure that the diabetes does not affect the eye. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends screening in the following frequencies according to the type of diabetes:

The first eye examination should be conducted after 5 years of diagnosis followed with annual screenings.

Test the eyes immediately after diagnosis followed by annual screenings

The eye examination should be scheduled during the first trimester

Fluctuating blood sugar can temporarily affect vision even if the patient does not have diabetic retinopathy. If you are a diabetic with vision problems, see an ophthalmologist immediately.

An ophthalmologist can determine your exact condition with a comprehensive eye examination, which may include one or many of the following procedures:

The test determines how well you can see shapes and objects at various distances

A specialized instrument to investigate various structures of the eye

The ophthalmologist dilates your eyes to examine the retina and optic nerve

An ultrasound can detect irregularities if is there is too much blood in the retina and thedoctor is not able to see it.

Diabetic Retinopathy cannot be cured, but timely intervention can slow the progression of the disease. Without treatment, the condition can become severe and the patient may lose vision permanently.

Laser surgery is the preferred option for some patients in preventing vision loss over time. The procedure shrinks abnormal blood vessels and decrease inflammations. It is an outpatient procedure and is performed using local anesthesia.

In advanced cases, the eye specialist may also select a more intrusive surgical procedure known as vitrectomy. The operation removes scar tissue and blood from your eye. The doctor can help your retina in returning to its proper location and prevent further bleeding.

Diabetic retinopathy patients should follow the instructions of their ophthalmologists to a letter. It can go a long way in helping them to preserve their vision.