What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a retina disease that is a complication of diabetes caused by changes in the blood vessels of the eye. The retina is a nerve layer at the back of the eye that senses light and helps send images to your brain, similar to film in a camera.
When blood vessels in the retina are damaged, they may leak fluid or blood, and grow fragile, brush-like branches and scar tissue. This symptom of diabetic retinopathy can blur or distort the images that the retina sends to the brain. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among the working-age population.
What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?
Initially, there are no symptoms of background diabetic retinopathy, although gradual blurring of vision may occur if macular edema is present. Serious diabetic retinopathy can be present without any symptoms. Ophthalmologists at the Cole Eye Institute recommend that all patients with diabetes undergo regular eye examinations to check for retina disease.
How is diabetic retinopathy treated?
Cole Eye Institute ophthalmologists will consider your age, medical history, lifestyle and how much of your retina is damaged when choosing the best diabetic retinopathy treatment for you. In many cases, treatment for retina disease is not necessary, but regular eye exams will be needed. In other cases, laser, medication or operative surgery is recommended to stop the damage of diabetic retinopathy. Both laser and operative surgery are highly effective treatments for diabetic retinopathy.
What is my part in treatment for retina disease
Early detection of diabetic retinopathy is the best protection against loss of vision. Your attitude and attention to medications and diet are essential. People with diabetes should schedule examinations with an ophthalmologist at least once a year. You must maintain blood sugar levels, avoid smoking and watch your blood pressure. Diabetic retinopathy can improve with treatment.
Click here to make an appointment now . Or call 216/444-2020 or 1/800-223-2273 Ext. 42020 to schedule an appointment with a Cole Eye Institute ophthalmologist.
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