Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes. It affects up to 80% of people who have had diabetes for 20 years or more. Despite its prevalence, many people are unaware of diabetic retinopathy until they start to notice changes in their vision. It's essential to understand this silent thief of sight if we are to combat its effects. It's a journey of awareness that begins with understanding the causes of diabetic retinopathy, its symptoms, and the importance of early detection.

 

What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy? 

Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the tissues at the back of the eye. Poorly controlled blood sugar is a risk factor. Normally, the pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that helps move sugar from the bloodstream into your cells. But if you have diabetes, your body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it does produce.

Over time, diabetes can lead to too much sugar in your blood. High blood sugar levels can damage tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. The damaged blood vessels can swell and leak. Or they can close, stopping blood from passing through. Sometimes abnormal new blood vessels grow on the retina, leading to serious vision problems.

 

Symptoms and Early Detection of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy often goes unnoticed until vision loss occurs. Early detection, timely treatment, and appropriate follow-up care of diabetic eye disease can protect against vision loss.

Diabetic retinopathy symptoms can range from none at all to blurred vision, which tends to fluctuate throughout the day, not being able to see colors the same way, or seeing an increasing number of floaters or dark spots in your vision.

 

Can Diabetic Retinopathy Be Reversed?

The damage caused to the eyes from diabetic retinopathy is often irreversible. However, early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of blindness. Because diabetic retinopathy often goes unnoticed until vision loss occurs, people with diabetes should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year.

Although damage caused by diabetic retinopathy can't be reversed, we can stop it from worsening. There are several treatment options available, ranging from laser surgery to vitrectomy. Injections of anti-VEGF drugs into the eye are sometimes used to stop the growth of new blood vessels.
 

How to Slow the Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy

While it's true that the damage caused by diabetic retinopathy often can't be reversed, there are steps you can take to slow its progression. Excellent blood sugar control, maintaining healthy blood pressure, regular exercise, and a healthy diet can all help slow the progression of the disease.

In addition, you should have regular eye exams to catch any changes in your vision early. If you notice any changes in your vision, contact your eye doctor immediately.
Lastly, it's important to avoid smoking and limit your alcohol consumption. Both of these can exacerbate the condition and speed up the progression of the disease.

 

Taking Steps to Preserve Your Vision

While the damage caused by diabetic retinopathy often can't be reversed, it can be managed and its progression can be slowed. Early detection, regular eye exams, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying on top of your diabetes management can all help preserve your vision.

To learn more on diabetic retinopathy, visit East Ventura Optometry in our Ventura, California, office. Please call (805) 647-4950 to schedule an appointment today.