What Is Diabetic Retinopathy? And How Is It Treated?

Posted by Dr. Matthew Clary on May 29th, 2023

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that affects people with diabetes. It is caused by changes in the blood vessels of the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It can lead to vision loss and even blindness if left untreated.

At The Eye Center, our team of board-certified ophthalmologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diabetic retinopathy. We understand how important it is for people with diabetes to have regular comprehensive eye exams to help detect any changes in their vision or health.

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to swelling and leaking of fluid into the surrounding tissue. These changes can cause blurred vision and dark spots in your field of view, as well as an increased risk of developing other vision problems like cataracts and glaucoma.

The most common symptoms of diabetic retinopathy are blurred vision or floaters (tiny specks that move around in your field of view). If you experience any changes in your vision, it is important to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced ophthalmologists right away so we can diagnose and treat any potential issues before they become more serious.

At The Eye Center, we offer a variety of treatments for diabetic retinopathy depending on its severity. In mild cases, laser surgery may be used to seal off leaking blood vessels and reduce swelling. For more advanced cases, we may recommend medication injections into the eye or a vitrectomy (a procedure that removes scar tissue from inside the eye).

Our team also works closely with patients to help them manage their diabetes so they can reduce their risk for developing complications like diabetic retinopathy. We provide education on healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, quitting smoking if applicable, and keeping stress levels under control. We also recommend regular comprehensive eye exams so any changes in your vision or health can be identified early on before they become more serious complications down the road.

If you have diabetes or are at risk for developing it due to family history or other factors, please don’t hesitate to contact The Eye Center today for an appointment with one our experienced ophthalmologists who will provide you with personalized care and treatment options tailored specifically for your needs. Our team is here to help you keep your eyes healthy and maintain clear vision now and into the future!

About Author

The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full-service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.