Diabetic Retinopathy is the most common cause of permanent vision loss under age 60. It’s the result of long-term bad sugar control and is largely preventable. Early exams, treatment, and patient involvement in controlling their own sugar are key to avoiding problems. What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Poorly controlled diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina. This can lead to DME (diabetic macular edema), which is leakage of fluid into the macula. It also causes new blood vessels to grow, break and bleed. This fills the eye with blood and makes it hard to see.
What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?
Over a period of time, high blood sugar can lead to the blood vessel damage described above. When this happens, those vessels can leak blood and fluid over the retina. This can cause distorted vision.
Eventually, new blood vessels will form in the retina. However, these will often become malformed, causing bleeding and scarring, and even retinal detachment. All this is preventable
The Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy
The treatment of diabetic retinopathy continues to improve! From non-destructive micropulse lasers to 3 designer medicines (Avastin, Eylea, and Lucentis) placed in the eye, to long-lasting drug-releasing implants for long-term control (like Oxzurdex and Iluvein), we are lucky to have so many options.
Different treatments are individualized for each patient to help restore vision and independence.
Dr. Mahootchi has been a Type 1 diabetic for over 30 years and has a special interest and perspective in preventing vision loss from diabetes.
Getting Diabetic Retinopathy Help
If you are diabetic, a diabetic retinopathy screening with us can truly save your vision. Avoid loss of sight, and make an appointment with the Eye Clinic of Florida.