DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

Diabetic retinopathy, the most common diabetic eye disease, occurs when blood vessels in the retina change. Sometimes these vessels swell and leak fluid or even close off completely. In other cases, abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

The best treatment for diabetic retinopathy is to prevent it. Strict control of your blood sugar will significantly reduce the long-term risk of vision loss. Treatment may slow or stop the progression of vision loss or it may restore your vision. Without treatment, diabetic retinopathy progresses steadily from minimal to severe stages.  

We can discuss treatment options for you including intravitreal injections, laser treatments and/or surgery depending on your diagnosis. 

 

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include

  • Seeing spots or floaters 

  • Blurred vision 

  • Having a dark or empty spot in the center of your vision 

  • Difficulty seeing well at night

  • Nausea or vomiting (accompanying severe eye pain) 

  • Sudden sight loss

It is recommend you see an eye health specialist if you experiencing any of these symptoms.  These symptoms may be signs of other vision problems.