Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the retina’s blood vessels) is the most common eye disease for diabetics. Diabetic retinopathy symptoms may not be visible at first, but in time it can cause a loss of vision, and is a leading cause of blindness. It typically affects both eyes, and is caused by excessive blood sugar that destroys blood vessels in the eye, depriving the retina from getting necessary nutrients. Anyone with diabetes, either type 1 or type 2, may develop diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms of blurred vision can occur in two ways. In some cases, fragile blood vessels will develop on the retina’s surface in an abnormal way, which will then leak into the center of the eye (proliferative retinopathy). In other cases, fluid that has leaked into the macula will cause swelling (macular edema). Either condition will result in blurred vision. Fifty percent of diabetics will experience both.
Recognizing Early Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy and Methods of Treatment
It is very important for people with diabetes to have an exam once a year, one in which your eyes are dilated and carefully examined. A professional can see early indications of any problems, so that you can begin treatment immediately. It is possible that you will not experience any diabetic retinopathy symptoms, so regular eye exams are a must. Of those diagnosed with diabetes, 40-45 percent have some degree of diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms, if they exist, can be addressed if detected early. You may see “spots” floating in your vision, which could be small specks of blood. If this happens, see your doctor immediately. Both conditions are treated with laser surgery – either scatter laser treatment to shrink abnormal blood vessels, or focal laser treatment to remove the fluid and slow down the leakage. This can stabilize the vision, but the operation may need to be repeated. Only occasionally can vision actually be improved.
How to Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy
If you have diabetes, rather than wait to see if you will experience diabetic retinopathy symptoms, there are steps you can take to lessen your risks. The best means of prevention are to monitor and control your blood sugar levels, your cholesterol and your blood pressure. This means having regular checkups, eating healthy foods (including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables), and getting regular exercise. Smoking should be strictly avoided, as it may cause other health problems associated with diabetes, possibly including issues with the eye’s small blood vessels. You should also pay attention to any changes in your vision, however minor. These simple steps and lifestyle choices will go a long way in reducing your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy symptoms so you can have strong, healthy eyes.
