Do you or a loved one have diabetes? If so, you should also know that it can impact your vision. If untreated, diabetic retinopathy destroys the blood vessels in the retina and causes loss of eyesight. Fortunately, this condition is controllable and even preventable with early detection and appropriate treatment.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy damages retinal blood vessels. The light-sensitive tissue at the eye's back, called the retina, transmits visual information to the brain. When the retina's blood vessels sustain damage, they may bleed or leak fluid, impairing vision.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

The condition’s symptoms vary with its severity. The early stages may be completely devoid of symptoms. But if the illness worsens, the following signs could appear:
 

• Blurred Vision
   

A typical sign of diabetic retinopathy is blurry vision. This can occur when fluid leaks from the damaged blood vessels in the retina, causing it to swell. Images might appear warped or fuzzy.
 

• Dark Spots or Streaks
   

Dark spots or streaks may appear in your field of vision. This also happens when blood leaks from the damaged blood vessels in the retina, causing tiny marks or smudges to appear.
 

• Fluctuating Vision
   

This is another common symptom of diabetic retinopathy. This can happen when the lens' shape changes due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. 
 

• Poor Night Vision
   

This can happen when the retinal cells that sense light sustain damage. This makes it challenging to see in dimly lit environments.
 

• Colors Appearing Faded or Washed Out
   

Colors may appear faded or washed out when the cells in the retina that detect color sustain damage.
 

Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy

Maintaining proper blood sugar levels is the best defense against diabetic retinopathy. Diet, exercise, and medicine are all effective ways to do this. Additionally, regular eye exams can detect diabetic retinopathy early, when it is easier to treat.

Treating Diabetic Retinopathy

The stage of the disease determines the course of treatment for diabetic retinopathy. Treatment might not be essential early on, but close observation is necessary. In more advanced stages, treatment options may include the following:
 

• Laser Treatment
   

Laser treatment can help seal leaking blood vessels in the retina. It can also shrink abnormal blood vessels, reducing the risk of bleeding.
 

• Vitrectomy
   

This surgical procedure removes the clear, jelly-like vitreous gel filling the eye. It can treat severe bleeding or scar tissue affecting the retina's ability to function.
 

• Injection Therapy
   

The doctor injects medicine into the eye to treat inflammation and halt the development of abnormal blood vessels.
 

• Anti-VEGF Treatment
   

The doctor injects a drug that inhibits the protein responsible for developing abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
 

Managing Diabetic Retinopathy

Managing diabetic retinopathy requires a comprehensive approach. Besides receiving treatment, you can manage the disease by:
 

• Controlling your blood sugar levels

• Controlling your blood pressure

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Quitting smoking

• Having regular eye exams

Conclusion

A dangerous side effect of diabetes called diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness and vision loss. However, early detection and treatment can manage it effectively. Regular eye checkups and blood sugar management are crucial if you have diabetes. It is critical if you want to avoid diabetic retinopathy. See your eye doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your vision.

For more on diabetic retinopathy, visit Raleigh Eye Center at our Raleigh, Durham, Reidsville, Henderson, North Carolina, or South Hill, Virginia, offices. Call (919) 876-2427 or (252) 492-8021 to schedule an appointment today.