Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy
High blood-sugar levels can damage blood circulation in the retina. In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, the retinal arteries become weak and can leak. This causes dot-like hemorrhages, swelling, and decreased vision.
In the next stage of diabetic retinopathy, the retina is oxygen deprived. The retina produces new fragile vessels to make up for the oxygen loss. These new vessels hemorrhage easily. Blood then leaks into the retina and vitreous causing floaters.
The last stage of diabetic retinopathy can cause continual abnormal vessel production and scar tissue. This can lead to more serious problems such as glaucoma and retinal detachment.
Symptoms
If you are diabetic it is important to schedule routine eye examinations with your ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist will order special tests such as a fluorescein angiography or retinal photography. These tests help the doctor determine the best way to treat the disease. If you are diabetic it is important to watch your blood sugar levels.
In the next stage of diabetic retinopathy, the retina is oxygen deprived. The retina produces new fragile vessels to make up for the oxygen loss. These new vessels hemorrhage easily. Blood then leaks into the retina and vitreous causing floaters.
The last stage of diabetic retinopathy can cause continual abnormal vessel production and scar tissue. This can lead to more serious problems such as glaucoma and retinal detachment.
Symptoms
- Blurred vision (usually linked to blood sugar)
- Flashes and floaters
- Sudden loss of vision
If you are diabetic it is important to schedule routine eye examinations with your ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist will order special tests such as a fluorescein angiography or retinal photography. These tests help the doctor determine the best way to treat the disease. If you are diabetic it is important to watch your blood sugar levels.
