Diabetic Eye Disease

What is Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic eye disease, particularly diabetic retinopathy, is a common and serious complication of diabetes mellitus. When blood sugar levels remain elevated, they can damage the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This damage can lead to vision problems and, if left untreated, even permanent vision loss.

As stated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, “diabetes can harm your vision without warning signs,” making regular eye exams essential. At PremierVision Laser Center, Inc., we are committed to the early detection and management of this condition.

Types of Diabetic Retinopathy

There are two main stages of diabetic retinopathy:

• Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR):
  This early stage is marked by leaking blood vessels that cause retinal swelling and may lead to deposits known as exudates.
• Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR):
  In this advanced stage, new, fragile blood vessels form in the retina. These can bleed into the vitreous (causing floaters or vision blockage), pull on the retina (leading to traction retinal detachment), or block eye drainage (resulting in neovascular glaucoma).

How It’s Diagnosed

Diabetic retinopathy can be present before any symptoms appear. That’s why comprehensive eye exams are critical. We use retinal imaging tools such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography (FA) to evaluate retinal health and identify fluid leaks or structural changes. Early diagnosis allows us to intervene before significant vision loss occurs.

Treatment Options

Managing diabetic eye disease begins with controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and other underlying health conditions. However, if retinopathy progresses, we may recommend:

• Intravitreal Injections
  Medications such as anti-VEGF agents or corticosteroids help reduce swelling in the macula.
• Laser Treatment
  Laser therapy can seal leaking vessels (for macular edema) or shrink abnormal vessels (for PDR).
• Vitrectomy Surgery
  In severe cases, we may perform a microsurgical procedure to remove vitreous hemorrhage or repair retinal detachment.

While treatments can’t cure diabetic retinopathy, they can stabilize or slow its progression and prevent further vision loss when administered promptly.

Prevention and Monitoring

The most effective strategy against diabetic eye disease is prevention. We encourage patients with diabetes to:

• Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year
• Maintain good control of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
• Seek immediate care for any visual changes lasting more than a few days

Women with diabetes who become pregnant should be examined during the first trimester, as diabetic retinopathy can progress rapidly during pregnancy.

Why Early Action Matters

At PremierVision Laser Center, Inc., we understand how diabetes affects your vision and your life. Thanks to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options, vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is largely preventable. We’re here to guide you at every step, helping you preserve your sight and protect your long-term eye health.