Diabetic Retinopathy FAQs with Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian

If you suffer from type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, although not everyone will develop the condition. The following are a few issues that could put you at higher risk:

• The length of time that you have had diabetes
• How often your blood glucose levels change
• How well-controlled your condition is

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy?

Many people don't know that they have diabetic retinopathy until the condition has become severe. When symptoms do begin, they include:

• Loss of central vision especially when driving or reading
• Blurry vision
• Black spots or holes in vision
• Difficult seeing colors

What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?

If your blood glucose level is often too high, it can block off the small blood vessels that lead to the retina. Over time, this can cause permanent damage to your retina, and over time the blood vessels will start to weaken. This can cause fluid and blood to drain to your retina. As the condition progresses, scar tissue can build up. The extra pressure caused by the scar tissue can cause your retina to detach.

How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?

If your condition is in the early stages, your eye doctor will encourage you to keep your diabetes under control. They will also do frequent checks to be sure that your condition is not progressing. If your disease has progressed, your doctor might recommend laser photocoagulation. This procedure will seal off the leaking blood vessels in the retina. This is a painless procedure; however, after the procedure, you might have trouble seeing at night and seeing colors.

In more advanced cases, your doctor will perform a vitrectomy. This procedure will remove the blood and fluid from the retina, allowing you to see better.

If you are suffering from type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it is essential that you see your optometrist as scheduled. Your optometrist at Primary Eyecare and Optical of Meridian will schedule regular visits to check the progression of your disease. They will use this information to provide the necessary treatment.  

Visit Primary Eyecare and Optical of Meridian

Contact our eye team today if you are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy or if you detect any other eye problems. Call 601-485-2020 today; our staff is here to help you.