Diabetic Retinopathy: Know It Early, Prevent It Before It's Too Late

🩺 What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye essential for vision. It occurs when chronically high blood sugar levels cause damage to the retinal blood vessels, leading to swelling, leakage, blockage, or the growth of abnormal new blood vessels.

👁‍🗨 Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

1. Early Stage (Non-Proliferative Retinopathy)
   Characterized by small blood vessel leaks or bulges (microaneurysms), often without noticeable symptoms.

2. Advanced Stage (Proliferative Retinopathy)
   New, fragile, and abnormal blood vessels begin to grow, increasing the risk of bleeding into the vitreous, retinal detachment, or sudden and severe vision loss.

⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch For

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Presence of floaters (dark spots or strings floating in vision)

• Distorted or discolored vision

• Reduced night vision

• Sudden loss of vision (especially when bleeding occurs in the eye)

Note: In the early stages, the disease may present no symptoms—regular eye exams are essential, even in the absence of complaints.

🧬 Who Is at Risk?

• Individuals with poorly controlled blood sugar levels

• Those with diabetes for more than 5 years

• Patients with high blood pressure or high cholesterol

• Pregnant women with diabetes

• Smokers and alcohol consumers

🛡 Everyday Prevention Tips
✅ Maintain target blood sugar levels
✅ Undergo a comprehensive eye exam by an ophthalmologist at least once a year
✅ Keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control
✅ Avoid smoking
✅ Maintain overall wellness through proper nutrition and lifestyle

💉 Treatment Options

1. Intravitreal Injections (Anti-VEGF Therapy)
   To reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage

2. Laser Photocoagulation
   Helps seal or shrink leaking blood vessels

3. Vitrectomy
   A surgical procedure performed when there is significant bleeding or retinal detachment