Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy and its Treatment

Dr.Navneet Gill, 2 mins read

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, which is caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the back of the eye (retina). It occurs due to prolonged high blood sugar levels, which damage the small blood vessels in the retina. The retina, a light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, plays a crucial role in vision by converting light into electrical signals that are transmitted to the brain. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision impairment and even blindness.

How Diabetes Affects the Eyes

The retina requires a continuous blood supply, which is provided by a network of tiny blood vessels. High blood sugar levels can weaken these vessels, leading to progressive damage. As the disease advances, abnormal new blood vessels may form, which are fragile and prone to rupture, further impairing vision.

Types:

There are three main types of diabetic retinopathy:

• Non-proliferative retinopathy is an early form of the disease, where the retinal blood vessels leak fluid or bleed.
• Macular oedema is a swelling of the macula, caused by the leakage of fluid from retinal blood vessels. It can damage central vision.
• Proliferative retinopathy is an advanced form of the disease and occurs when blood vessels in the retina disappear and are replaced by new fragile vessels that bleed easily, and that can result in a sudden loss of vision.

Risk Factors:

Certain factors increase the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, including:

• Long-term diabetes
• Poorly controlled blood sugar levels
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Pregnancy

Symptoms:

Early stages of diabetic retinopathy usually don’t have any symptoms. If not treated on time, it can lead to:

• gradual worsening of vision
• sudden vision loss
• shapes floating in your field of vision (floaters)
• blurred or patchy vision
• eye pain or redness

These symptoms do not always indicate diabetic retinopathy, but any changes in vision should be evaluated by an eye specialist.

Treatment options:

1. Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Control: Maintaining stable blood sugar and blood pressure levels can slow disease progression and reduce the risk of vision loss.
2. Laser Treatment (Photocoagulation): This procedure is used for macular oedema and proliferative retinopathy. The laser seals leaking blood vessels and reduces the growth of abnormal vessels, helping to prevent further vision impairment.
3. Surgery (Vitrectomy): In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove blood from the vitreous or repair retinal detachment. This procedure is recommended when laser treatment is not sufficient to manage the condition.

Takeaway!

Early detection through regular eye exams can play a crucial in managing diabetic retinopathy. Timely treatment and proper diabetes management can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision loss.

Also Read: SMILE Vs Lasik