Diabetic retinopathy is a serious, sight-threatening condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It is a common complication for individuals with diabetes, particularly when blood sugar levels are not well-managed over time. Understanding diabetic retinopathy, its symptoms, stages, and the importance of regular eye exams can help patients take proactive steps to protect their vision.
 

What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetes can impact blood flow throughout the body, including the tiny, delicate blood vessels in the retina. High blood sugar levels can damage these vessels, leading to fluid leaks, bleeding, or abnormal blood vessel growth. Over time, these changes can result in vision problems and potentially irreversible vision loss if untreated.
 

Recognizing the Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms, making regular eye exams critical for early detection. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
 

•           Blurred or fluctuating vision

•           Dark spots or “floaters” in your field of vision

•           Difficulty seeing colors or loss of color vision

•           Empty or dark areas in your vision

•           Sudden vision loss
 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult an eye care specialist promptly.
 

The Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy progresses in stages, each with its unique challenges and risks:
 

1. Mild Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: In this earliest stage, small areas of the retina begin to swell due to weak blood vessels. There may be tiny spots of bleeding, but vision is typically unaffected.
 

2. Moderate Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: The condition progresses as blood vessels become increasingly damaged, affecting the retina’s blood supply and leading to further swelling.
 

3. Severe Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: At this stage, the retina’s blood supply is significantly reduced, leading to more widespread damage and loss of retinal tissue.
 

4. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy: This advanced stage is characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth, which can lead to bleeding, scarring, and even retinal detachment—a medical emergency that can cause sudden vision loss.
 

Diagnosing Diabetic Retinopathy

Regular eye exams, including a dilated retinal exam, are essential for detecting diabetic retinopathy early. At Bespoke Eye Care, we may also use optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging to provide a more detailed view of the retina, allowing us to assess the extent of any damage.
 

Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy

While there’s no cure for diabetic retinopathy, treatments can help manage the condition and protect vision. The type of treatment recommended will depend on the stage of retinopathy and overall eye health:
 

•           Laser treatment to seal leaking blood vessels

•           Anti-VEGF injections to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth

•           Vitrectomy surgery to remove blood from the eye and repair damage in advanced cases
 

Schedule Your Exam at Bespoke Eye Care

Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. In addition to these healthy lifestyle choices, regular eye exams at Bespoke Eye Care are vital for catching any early signs of retinopathy before they progress. Diabetic retinopathy is a serious condition, but early detection and proper management can make a profound difference.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Bespoke Eye Care to help you maintain clear vision and prevent the progression of diabetic eye disease. Visit our office in Dallas, Texas, or call (972) 703-9070 to book an appointment today.