Diabetic eye diseases

Diabetes and Your Eyes: Preventing Vision Loss Through Early Detection

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that affects people with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause damage to blood vessels in the retina. Over time, this can lead to vision problems and is one of the leading causes of blindness.

Causes

Poorly controlled diabetes

High blood sugar levels: weaken and damage the small blood vessels within the retina

Blood and fluid leakage into the eye
Swelling and distortion of vision
Reduced blood flow to the retina, harming its function

Signs and symptoms

Often, diabetic retinopathy has no early warning signs. As it progresses, symptoms may appear, including:

Blurred or fluctuating vision.

Dark or empty areas in your vision.

Difficulty seeing at night.

Seeing spots or floaters.

Colours appear washed out or different.

Treatments

Blood sugar control

Managing diabetes carefully can significantly slow the onset and progression of retinopathy.

Injections

Anti-VEGF injection therapy helps reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina.

Laser treatment

Targets and seals off leaking and abnormal blood vessels to prevent further damage.

Surgery

In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to remove blood or scar tissue from the retina.

Prevention and Management

Maintaining control of your diabetes is the best way to prevent or delay the development of diabetic retinopathy. Other crucial steps include regular eye exams, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure and leading a healthy lifestyle

Don’t wait for the symptoms to appear!

Contact our clinic to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and ensure your eyes are healthy. Our team is here to help you manage your vision health effectively.