Imagine gradually losing your sight, without hurting and without even noticing it- until it is too late. That is the frightening reality of diabetic retinopathy. One of the major causes of avoidable adult blindness.
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disorder which can result when the high blood sugar levels destroy the small blood vessels in the retina, the sensitive tissue of the eye at the back.
Not controlled diabetes diabetes will result in retina damage resulting in:
Such a gradual damage may disrupt the way the retina transmits signals to the brain resulting in diabetic retinopathy blindness in the long run without treatment.
The condition occurs in phases and most individuals do not show any of the symptoms during the initial stages.
Yes. Diabetic retinopathy may result in severe stages:
The retina works like a camera film. In case of weakening of blood vessels when under the influence of excessive blood sugar:
These cause leakage in the retina.
This chain reaction leads to progressive visual impairment starting with blurred vision and complete loss of vision in severe cases.
The risk of diabetic retinopathy is one of the largest since the symptoms often appear late. But here are warning signs:
In case you detect any of these, do not delay an eye examination.
You have increased risk of diabetic retinopathy blindness should you:
The longer you live with untreated diabetes, the higher the risk of retina damage.
Yes. Particularly when at an early stage.
The treatment is dependent on the stage:
Sometimes lifestyle changes alone can slow progression.
These medications reduce swelling and maintain central vision.
These are procedures that would avoid additional bleeding and minimize the chances of retinal detachment.
While treatment cannot always reverse existing damage. It can prevent further vision loss in most cases.
Prevention is significant and this coincides with the overall health protection.
The following is the way you can mitigate your risk:
Glucose level is maintained and thus retinal damage is slowed.
The complications of the eye are aggravated by high blood pressure.
A healthy diet, physical activity and maintaining weight are helpful to the diabetic condition and overall health.
Smoking hastens the destruction of the vessels.
Even without symptoms.
Interestingly, most of the principles applied to minimize the risk of developing cancer, including taking care of oneself, having the right diet and not smoking also guard against diabetic complications. Similar to the general cancer prevention guidelines that are concerned with early diagnosis and minimizing the risk, the diabetic eye care relies on regular screening and proactive management.
The risk factors of chronic diseases are common. The same lifestyle which is beneficial in reducing the risk of cancer aids in the health of the eyes and the general well being.
We often talk about the physical effects, but vision loss affects independence, confidence and quality of life.
Simple activities like, reading, driving, recognizing faces, working, ecome challenging.
Does Diabetic retinopathy cause permanent blindness?
Yes- but it does not have to.
With:
There is a large risk of serious damage to the retina which can be reduced by you. Your eyes should be taken care of.
If you have diabetes, do not wait until the symptoms appear. Schedule a diabetic eye checkup and take the first step toward retaining your vision.
At ThinkEye Hospitals, advanced retinal care and individual treatment strategy help in the detection and management of diabetic eye complications before they can pose a threat to your vision.
Your eyesight is precious.
The difference between clear vision and a permanent loss may lie in the timeliness of action.
Get your diabetic eye checkup today- prevention is the cure of sight.