Living with diabetes requires careful management of your overall health, and your vision is no exception. One of the most serious eye conditions associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, a progressive disease that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. At VisionMD Eye Doctors, we specialize in diagnosing and treating diabetic retinopathy to help you protect and preserve your sight.
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, these weakened blood vessels can leak fluid or bleed, leading to blurred vision, floaters, and even blindness in severe cases.
There are two main stages of diabetic retinopathy:
- Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR): In the early stage, small retinal blood vessels begin to swell and leak, potentially causing mild to moderate vision problems.
- Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR): In the advanced stage, abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina, increasing the risk of severe vision loss or blindness.
Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms
Diabetic retinopathy can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Colors appearing faded or washed out
- Vision loss in one or both eyes
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an eye exam immediately.
How VisionMD Eye Doctors Can Help
At VisionMD Eye Doctors, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to detect diabetic retinopathy in its earliest stages. Our comprehensive eye exams assess retinal health, allowing us to tailor a treatment plan to your needs.
Treatment Options
While early diabetic retinopathy may not require immediate intervention, monitoring and controlling blood sugar levels are key to slowing progression. For advanced cases, we offer the following treatments:
- Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation): A targeted laser seals leaking blood vessels and prevents further vision loss.
- Intravitreal Injections: Medications such as anti-VEGF drugs help reduce swelling and abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Vitrectomy: In severe cases, a surgical procedure removes blood and scar tissue from the retina to restore vision.
Managing Your Eye Health with Diabetes
Preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic retinopathy involves proactive eye care and diabetes management. Here’s what you can do:
- Control Blood Sugar Levels: Keep your blood sugar within a healthy range to reduce retinal damage.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol contribute to retinal complications.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can improve overall eye health.
- Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Annual comprehensive eye exams at VisionMD Eye Doctors help detect changes early and prevent complications.
Protect Your Vision with VisionMD Eye Doctors
If you have diabetes, your vision should be a top priority. At VisionMD Eye Doctors, we provide expert care and advanced treatments for diabetic retinopathy at our convenient locations in Glenn Dale, College Park, and Clinton, Maryland.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear—schedule an eye exam and protect your sight with proactive care and expert treatment.