Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes. It affects blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. Diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss and blindness. We offer optometry services at Eye See in Lincolnshire and Des Plaines, IL, to help with diabetic retinopathy treatment and relief.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina. It is the most common cause of vision loss and blindness among people with diabetes.
What are the symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy?
At first, diabetic retinopathy may cause no symptoms or only mild vision problems. As the condition progresses, diabetic retinopathy can cause symptoms such as:
When diabetic retinopathy first begins, you may notice that your vision is blurry. This happens because the blood vessels in the retina start to leak fluid.
As diabetic retinopathy progresses, you may see floaters in your vision. Floaters are small pieces of debris that float in your field of vision. They are usually most noticeable when looking at a plain, light-colored background like a wall.
If diabetic retinopathy progresses to the point where the blood vessels in the retina are severely damaged, you may develop blind spots in your vision. A blind spot is an area where you cannot see anything, even if you look directly at it.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed?
Diabetic retinopathy is typically diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. During the exam, your doctor will examine your retina for signs of damage. They may also order tests such as:
This test involves injecting a dye into your arm and then taking pictures of your retina. The dye makes it easier to see the blood vessels in your retina.
Optical Coherence Tomography
This test uses light waves to take pictures of your retina. It can show whether the blood vessels in your retina are swollen or leaking fluid.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?
Sometimes, your eye doctor can treat diabetic retinopathy with laser surgery. During the surgery, your eye doctor will use a laser to destroy the abnormal blood vessels in your retina. This treatment can help to stop the progression of diabetic retinopathy and offer relief.
The treatment of diabetic retinopathy often depends on how severe the condition is. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. In other cases, you may need treatment to prevent vision loss and blindness.
Contact Us at Eye See for Optometry Services
If you have diabetes, it is important to have regular eye exams. At Eye See in Lincolnshire and Des Plaines, IL, we offer optometry services to help treat and relieve diabetic retinopathy. Contact our eye doctor at (847) 243-3330 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you protect your vision!