Part of effective diabetes management involves knowing what complications can arise, such as eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy. Although not every diabetic person develops this condition, you’ll be able to protect yourself better if you know as much as possible about it. The best way to start is by learning the answers to the most commonly asked questions. 

An Overview of Diabetic Retinopathy 

What exactly is this condition? 

High levels of blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina so that they swell or burst, causing leaks. Retinopathy can lead to blindness over time.

Although it can happen to people with type 1 diabetes, anyone who’s had type 2 diabetes for 10 or more years is also at risk. So are diabetic people who smoke, have high cholesterol or blood pressure, or are pregnant. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for this eye disease, so prevention is essential. 

What are the signs and symptoms? 

At first, you may notice your vision blurring or clouding, or that it’s better some days than others. The condition could also cause you to see floaters, develop blind spots, or see colors differently. Some of these symptoms may be accompanied by headaches and general eye pain. 

What other issues may occur? 

Although retinal bleeding may only create floaters, severe cases may provoke hemorrhages in your eye, blocking your vision entirely. You could also develop glaucoma as the blood vessels press on your optic nerve and disrupt normal blood flow. This could lead to blindness. So could retinal detachment, which is when blood flow pushes the retina out of place, although it may simply make more floaters or produce flashes of light instead. 

How can it be treated? 

An eye doctor may be able to slow or halt the disease’s progress with a vitrectomy, an eye surgery that replaces the damaged fluids in your eye. Alternatively, there’s laser photocoagulation, which involves sealing broken blood vessels and eliminating new ones. An optometrist can tell you whether you’re a good candidate for either procedure. 

How can it be prevented? 

Since diabetic retinopathy is caused by high blood sugar levels, the best way to prevent such an eye disease is controlling your blood sugar. Maintain a diet low in sugar, and exercise regularly to keep your weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure down. If you smoke, strive to quit. Have eye exams once or twice a year to catch this or other eye diseases early. 

 
To be examined for diabetic retinopathy or any other eye disease, contact West Valley Vision Center in Fairbanks, AK. They are dedicated to providing personalized care. They’ll accurately assess your risks and treatment options so that you can make the best decisions for your eye health. Find out more about their services today by calling (907) 479-4700 or checking out their website.