Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that affects the retina—the part of the eye that senses light and sends signals to the brain to form visual images. It is caused by damage to the small blood vessels in the retina, which can occur as a result of high blood sugar levels over a long period of time.

Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy

In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, patients may experience blurred vision, dark spots or streaks in their field of vision, or even complete loss of vision in one or both eyes.

Who gets diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes, affecting approximately one-third of all people with the disease. The risk of developing the condition increases the longer a person has diabetes and the less well-controlled their blood sugar levels are.

Treatment for diabetic retinopathy

The good news is that there are several effective treatments for diabetic retinopathy. The most important step is to control blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and medications prescribed by a physician.

Laser surgery. Also known as photocoagulation, this procedure uses a special type of laser to target and seal off abnormal blood vessels in the retina. During the procedure, Dr. Petelin will use a laser to make small burns in the retina, which will cause the abnormal blood vessels to shrink and eventually close off. This can help prevent further bleeding and swelling in the eye, and can also help prevent vision loss. Laser surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient can go home the same day as the procedure. The procedure is generally painless, although patients may experience some discomfort and sensitivity to light afterwards. Most patients will need to have several laser treatments over the course of several weeks or months in order to fully treat the condition.

Injections. Injections of Anti-VEGF or steroid medications directly into the eye, also known as intraocular injections, are another treatment option for diabetic retinopathy. These injections are given here in our office and involve the use of a fine needle to deliver medication directly into the vitreous, which is the jelly-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. Anti-VEGF medications work by blocking the activity of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which can cause abnormal blood vessels to grow and leak in the retina. Steroids work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the eye. Like laser surgery, intraocular injections are generally well-tolerated by patients, although they may experience some discomfort or pressure during the injection. Most patients will need to have several injections over the course of several months in order to fully treat the condition.

Care for Diabetic Retinopathy at Petelin Vision

Both laser surgery and intraocular injections are highly effective treatments for diabetic retinopathy, and can help prevent further vision loss in many patients. However, the specific treatment approach will depend on the severity and stage of the condition, as well as other factors such as the patient’s overall health and medical history. Your eye doctor will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

It’s important to note that early detection and treatment are key to preventing vision loss from diabetic retinopathy. That’s why we recommend that anyone with diabetes have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year to check for signs of the condition.