Diabetic Retinopathy

Overview

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages small blood vessels in the retina. It can develop without noticeable vision changes, making regular dilated eye examinations an important part of long-term diabetes care.

Symptoms

Early diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms. Later signs may include fluctuating blur, dark spots, floaters, missing areas of vision, poor night vision, faded colors, or sudden vision loss.

When to see a doctor

Follow the examination schedule recommended by your diabetes and eye-care teams, including during pregnancy. Seek prompt care for sudden vision loss, a curtain or shadow, new flashes or floaters, severe blur, or eye pain.

Causes

Persistently elevated blood glucose can weaken retinal blood vessels, causing leakage, swelling, closure, or abnormal new vessel growth. Diabetes also raises the likelihood of cataracts and glaucoma.

Risk Factors

Risk rises with longer duration of diabetes, elevated A1c, high blood pressure, kidney disease, abnormal cholesterol, smoking, pregnancy, and inconsistent medical follow-up.

Complications

Untreated disease can lead to diabetic macular edema, bleeding inside the eye, scar tissue, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and permanent vision loss.

Diagnosis & Treatment

A diabetic eye exam may include dilation, retinal photography, and OCT imaging. Care can involve closer monitoring, improved coordination with your physician, and referral for retinal injections, laser treatment, or surgery when indicated.

Protect your sight early

Bespoke Eye Care provides diabetic retinal examinations in Chester Springs and can share relevant findings with your medical team with your permission.