Diabetic retinopathy is a progressive eye disease that can slowly deteriorate vision over time. In its initial stages, the disease may present few or no symptoms. Many patients come into their eye exams unaware that there is anything related to diabetes effecting their eyes. This is called mild non-proliferative retinopathy, which can only be diagnosed by looking at the retina. It is important for anyone with diabetes to have a retinal exam year, as treatments are most effective when the disease is found early.
Not having a yearly eye exam for a diabetic patient could mean allowing non proliferative diabetic retinopathy to progress into proliferative retinopathy. This is a moderate to severe type of retinal exam which could cause irreversible damage to the eyes. Treatments are available to help preserve vision and slow the progression of retinopathy in the eye.
Did you know…
that diabetic retinopathy is the number one cause of blindness and vision loss among adults under age 70 in America? The primary risk factor for developing the disease is having diabetes – though not all people who have diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy. The catch is, even if your A1c has been controlled with medication but you’ve had diabetes for a long time, you’re still at risk for retinal complications. Children and teens with diabetes have a slim chance of developing diabetic retinopathy, but risk increases with age. Fewer than three in four people with diabetes also have diabetic retinopathy by age 45.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible that I am suffering from diabetic retinopathy?
Only your provider at your eye exam can tell you if you have diabetic retinopathy. However, there are some signs and symptoms to watch out for. If you experience any changes in vision, such as blurriness, floaters, spots in your vision, impaired night vision or even partial blindness – see your eye doctor immediately. It could be any type of retinal disease including diabetic retinopathy.
What should I expect if I am diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy?
If you have diabetic retinopathy, you will be closely monitored by your eye doctor with various tests to determine the extent of the disease. If it is moderately to severely progressed, you may need further treatment or referral to a surgeon.
Is there anything I can do to lower my risk of developing diabetic retinopathy?
It is important to keep your blood sugar under control, take your medication as directed, exercise, and continue to see your eye care provider as directed.