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Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy: Prevention, Treatment, and Management

Edgar Allan Poe

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Published in Diabetic Retinopathy (Contemporary Diabetes) David Walters

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What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It is a leading cause of blindness in people with diabetes, and it can affect both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Diabetic Retinopathy (Contemporary Diabetes)

by David Walters

4 out of 5

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Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. This can lead to the formation of new, abnormal blood vessels that can leak fluid and blood into the retina. The leakage of fluid and blood can cause swelling and damage to the retina, which can lead to vision loss.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy often does not cause any symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience the following symptoms:

Blurred vision
Floaters (dark spots or lines in your vision)
Flashes of light
Double vision
Loss of central vision
Loss of peripheral vision

Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy

The main cause of diabetic retinopathy is high blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina. Other risk factors for diabetic retinopathy include:

Duration of diabetes
Poor blood sugar control
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Pregnancy
Smoking
Obesity

Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy

There is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, but treatment can help to slow the progression of the disease and prevent vision loss. Treatment options for diabetic retinopathy include:

Laser surgery
Anti-VEGF injections
Vitrectomy surgery

The type of treatment that is best for you will depend on the severity of your diabetic retinopathy.

Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy

The best way to prevent diabetic retinopathy is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. Other ways to prevent diabetic retinopathy include:

Getting regular eye exams
Managing your blood pressure and cholesterol
Quitting smoking
Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
Eating a healthy diet
Getting regular exercise

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye disease that can lead to vision loss. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, you can help to slow the progression of the disease and prevent vision loss. If you have diabetes, it is important to get regular eye exams to check for diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetic Retinopathy (Contemporary Diabetes)

by David Walters

4 out of 5