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Because the eyes are so vascular, they're especially vulnerable to diabetes-related complications. Over time, for example, uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage the retina. Also known as diabetic retinopathy, this condition can cause permanent blindness if left untreated. For these reasons, those who have diabetes should stay on top of their eye health. If you or someone you love is at risk of diabetic retinopathy, here’s what you should know about the condition.

Causes & Symptoms 

When diabetes is untreated or uncontrolled, the constant blood sugar dips and spikes can damage vessels throughout the body, including those in the retina. This damage is the primary cause of diabetic retinopathy, of which there are three kinds.

Background retinopathy is caused by minimal damage to retinal blood vessels and does not usually manifest any symptoms. If the damage progresses, the eye will attempt to repair itself, resulting in proliferative retinopathy. Those with this condition will develop new—but significantly weaker—blood vessels on the retina. Symptoms might include floaters in your vision and distorted shapes. 

Diabetic maculopathy, on the other hand, is a result of retinopathy and is characterized by damage to the macula. The main symptom is blurring of your central vision. Therefore, you may have trouble reading or recognizing faces directly in front of you. 

Prevention & Treatment eye health

Since all diabetic eye diseases can develop to a fairly advanced stage without causing any noticeable symptoms, it’s essential to schedule regular exams if you have diabetes. As long as diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed early, it may be possible to preserve your eye health by slowing its progression.

Naturally, the most effective treatment modality will depend on a variety of factors. Possible approaches include laser surgery and vitrectomy. Medication can also help by reducing swelling in the macula to slow vision loss. Additionally, controlling your diabetes will reduce the severity of the condition in general. 

 

If you have diabetes, you can turn to Staarmann Family Vision Center for quality eye care. Located in Fairfield, OH, this local practice stresses preventive care and strives to educate their patients on eye health at every appointment. When you turn to one of their optometrists for care, you can count on receiving personalized attention from start to finish. To request an appointment with an eye health expert on their team, call (513) 874-1718 or reach out on their website

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