What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it is important to know that you are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. This condition is a complication of diabetes caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, the tissue at the back of the eyeball that has light-sensitive properties. While the early stages of this condition may only result in mild vision issues such as floating spots or blurred vision, it can ultimately lead to blindless. The less controlled blood sugar levels are and the longer you have been dealing with diabetes, the more likely you are to develop diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosis and Treatment
Working with an ophthalmologist specializing in diabetic retinopathy is key for early detection and effective treatment of this condition. Below, we are covering some of the services we offer at Sight360 for patients who may be dealing with diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic Eye Exam
For diabetics, regular eye exams are a must and are typically recommended on an annual basis. These exams focus on taking a close look at the retina to identify any evidence of damage. In order to see your retina and other structures within your eye clearly, the doctor will dilate your pupils with special eye drops. In some cases, a dye called fluorescein may be used to pinpoint leaks or blood vessel abnormalities.
Lifestyle Changes
A healthy lifestyle is one of the most important factors in managing diabetic retinopathy. First and foremost, stable blood sugar levels must be maintained through a healthy diet and exercise regimen. In addition, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol can help with controlling your blood pressure, while keeping an eye on your cholesterol is also imperative. Our doctors can discuss the necessary lifestyle changes with you to help you make all the right adjustments.
Intravitreal Injection Anti-VegF
To minimize the appearance of abnormal blood vessels and reduce leakage, your ophthalmologist may suggest intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VegF). This is a common and effective treatment, but multiple injections over time are often required to maintain the desired results.
Intravitreal Steroid Therapy
Steroids can also be injected into a substance in the eye called the vitreous in order to stop retina swelling. By improving how the retina functions, this treatment can help restore stable vision to patients with diabetic retinopathy.
Laser Retinopexy
To slow the progression of this condition and preserve the patient’s vision, laser retinopexy may be recommended. Also referred to as laser photocoagulation, this procedure makes use of a state-of-the-art laser to seal leakages and lower the potential for additional damage to the retina.
Retinal Laser Treatment
Another form of laser therapy, this treatment differs from laser retinopexy in that it takes a broader approach to reducing the potential for abnormal blood vessels to form and helps prevent retinal detachment.
Vitrectomy Surgery
In advanced cases of diabetic retinopathy, vitrectomy surgery may be necessary. During this procedure, a special instrument is used to carefully cut and suction the vitreous gel out of the eye, followed by removal of scar tissue or retinal detachment repair.
Turn to Sight360 for Diabetic Eye Disease Treatment
If you are at risk for diabetic retinopathy, prevent diabetic eye complications with help from the medical professionals at Sight360. Our comprehensive eye care services include state-of-the-art surgical treatment and personalized counselling. Learn more by scheduling your first appointment with us today.
