Causes

When blood sugar levels remain too high, it can damage small blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the retina (the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye). The excess sugar in the blood obstructs blood cells from passing through these tiny vessels in the eye, causing them to leak fluid or bleed. 

In response to this damage, the body tries to compensate by generating new blood vessels, a process known as “proliferation.” However, these new vessels are weaker and less efficient, which can lead to further leakage and bleeding in the eye. 

Who Is at Risk of Developing Diabetic Retinopathy? 

There are several risk factors that can heighten one’s risk of developing diabetic retinopathy: 

• Being of African-American, Hispanic, or Native American descent 
• Duration of diabetes 
• Poor control of blood sugar levels 
• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
• Being pregnant 
• Tobacco smoking 

Symptoms

In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, there may be no symptoms or only mild vision issues. However, as the condition progresses, it can potentially lead to vision loss. 

There are two main stages of diabetic retinopathy: non-proliferative and proliferative retinopathy. In the early, non-proliferative stage, symptoms may be minimal or absent. 

In proliferative retinopathy, there can be noticeable changes in vision indicating significant deterioration of eye health, such as diabetic macular edema (swelling of the macula), which is a common cause of vision loss in diabetic retinopathy.  

Symptoms may include: 

• Vision loss 
• Empty or dark areas in your vision 
• Fluctuating vision 
• Spots or dark strings floating in your vision (floaters) 
• Blurred vision 
• Impaired color vision

Treatment

Whether you have type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes, you’re at risk for diabetic retinopathy. The longer you’ve had diabetes, the higher the risk. It’s crucial to maintain good control of your blood sugar levels and get regular comprehensive eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy early and prevent vision loss. 

Treatment for diabetic retinopathy may involve procedures like vitrectomy (replacing the gel-like substance inside the eye) and laser surgery. These treatments aim to manage complications and preserve vision. 

Diabetic Retinopathy must be managed regularly with your eye doctor. Please call and schedule your medical exam with our clinics.