Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage these blood vessels, causing them to leak fluid or bleed, leading to vision problems.

There are two main types of diabetic retinopathy: non-proliferative and proliferative. Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy involves weak or swollen blood vessels, while proliferative diabetic retinopathy involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels.

Symptoms

Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy may include blurred or distorted vision, floaters, difficulty seeing at night, and sudden vision loss. However, in its early stages, this condition often presents with no noticeable symptoms, highlighting the importance of regular eye exams for individuals with diabetes.

Treatment

Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and timely treatment, which may involve laser therapy, medication injections, or surgery, to prevent vision loss or slow its progression. Proper management of diabetes through blood sugar control is also essential.

Eye injections, specifically anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections, are a common treatment for diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where the blood vessels in the retina are damaged due to diabetes. Anti-VEGF medications are injected into the eye to block the effects of VEGF, a protein that contributes to the growth of abnormal blood vessels and leakage. By reducing the growth and leakage of these vessels, the injections help prevent further damage to the retina, stabilize vision, and may even improve vision in some cases. Multiple injections are often required over time, and regular follow-up visits are important for monitoring and adjusting the treatment as needed.

PRP, or panretinal photocoagulation, is a treatment for advanced diabetic retinopathy. It involves the use of a laser to create small burns on the retina outside the central vision area. This process aims to shrink abnormal blood vessels and reduce the risk of bleeding and further damage to the retina. By targeting a wide area of the retina, PRP helps to improve oxygen and nutrient supply to the retina, promoting its health. While PRP can cause some peripheral vision loss, it is crucial in preventing severe vision loss and complications associated with diabetic retinopathy. Multiple sessions may be required to complete the treatment.

Surgery is sometimes necessary in cases of severe diabetic retinopathy to prevent vision loss or restore vision.

Regular monitoring is essential to assess the treatment’s effectiveness and make any necessary adjustment.