Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that sometimes accompanies diabetes. It is the most common diabetic eye disease. Diabetic eye disease is a term used for any of the eye problems that may exist as complications of diabetes.
Education on diabetic eye disease and retinopathy is especially important because it is often preventable or treatable. Unfortunately, this means it can go unnoticed in the early stages. As the disease progresses, however, permanent vision loss is a real possibility if the patient doesn’t receive treatment.
Learn more about this type of diabetic eye disease with our video. Talk to your physician about managing diabetes. This is a common condition that we see often at [INSERT OFFICE NAME] Make sure to speak to [INSERT DOCTOR NAME] if you have any questions about managing your eye health.
It is an ocular manifestation of diabetes, a systemic disease, which affects up to 80% of all patients who have had diabetes for 10 years or more. The longer a person has diabetes, the higher his or her chances of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Despite these intimidating statistics, research indicates that at least 90% of new cases could be reduced. Preventative monitoring during regular eye examinations and proper treatment can help.
There are multiple forms of this type of retinopathy, and only your doctor can determine your particular form. With one form, blood vessels may swell and leak fluid. In another, abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina.
Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, many do not notice a change to their vision because there are little to no symptoms. If an eye doctor does not catch diabetic retinopathy early, one could sustain mild blurriness at near or in the distance, as well as floaters. In severe cases, a sudden loss of vision may occur.
Unfortunately, Diabetic Retinopathy can result in permanent damage that cannot be reversed. However, if caught in time, prescribed treatments may slow development and prevent vision loss.
Concerned about the onset of diabetic retinopathy? Call and schedule a preventative eye examination today.