Diabetic Retinal Disease

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20-74 in the United States, and it can develop in anyone with Type I, Type II, or gestational diabetes. High blood sugar from diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, causing the delicate retinal tissues to weaken and affecting your vision. Without treatment, this condition can lead to severe vision problems, but with early detection and proper care, the risk of vision loss can be reduced by up to 95%.

Retinopathy can cause severe damage to the delicate retinal tissues and cause both temporary and permanent vision problems. Those diagnosed with diabetes should not wait for the symptoms to appear, as there is no pain and vision may not change until the disease becomes severe.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when elevated blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the layer of nerve tissue at the back of the eye responsible for vision. As these blood vessels weaken, fluid leaks into the retina, causing swelling, bleeding, and vision problems. In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy may cause no symptoms or only mild blurring. As the condition progresses, however, it can lead to significant visual impairment or even blindness.

Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy

The first stage of diabetic retinopathy is called non-proliferative retinopathy (NPDR). A patient may have NPDR and have only mild blurring or no symptoms at all, even though significant damage to the retinal tissue is beginning. During this stage of the disease, portions of the retina’s blood vessels weaken and bulge outward; hemorrhages and microaneurysms result. Some of these unhealthy capillaries have very poor blood flow and are unable to deliver nutrients to the retina resulting in further damage (macular ischemia). Damaged blood vessels or areas of ischemia often leak fluid within the retinal tissue, causing the retina to swell. This swelling is called macular edema and may require treatment. Our retina surgeons employ the most advanced imaging system in the world to evaluate and image diabetic retinal disease.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)

The first stage of diabetic retinopathy is non-proliferative retinopathy (NPDR). This stage may not cause noticeable symptoms, though significant damage to the retinal blood vessels is beginning. Blood vessels in the retina weaken, bulge, and may leak fluid, leading to macular edema, which can impair vision. Early detection through comprehensive eye exams is crucial for preventing further damage.

Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

As the blood flow to the retina worsens, the body attempts to grow new blood vessels. These new, abnormal vessels are fragile and prone to leaking blood into the eye, causing blurred vision, floaters, and in some cases, near-total vision loss. If left untreated, PDR can lead to severe complications. Laser treatment or vitrectomy surgery may be needed to treat the condition and prevent further vision loss.

Annual comprehensive eye exams are essential for detecting diabetic eye disease before symptoms appear. By managing blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight, individuals with diabetes can help prevent or slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy. If caught early, diabetic retinopathy can often be treated effectively to preserve vision. Research shows that controlling blood sugar levels slows the onset and progression of diabetic retinopathy.

How Do You Treat Diabetic Retinopathy?

How is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated retina exam, is the most effective way to detect diabetic retinopathy. By dilating the pupil, your eye doctor can closely examine the retina and other structures inside the eye, identifying changes in blood vessels, swelling, and other signs of retinal damage. In some cases, a fluorescein angiogram may be used to better assess blood vessel leakage.

Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy

At M&M Eye Institute, our retinal specialists offer advanced treatments tailored to your needs. Options include:

Photocoagulation: A laser is used to seal leaking blood vessels and stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
Scatter Photocoagulation: This technique uses a laser to create tiny burns that shrink abnormal blood vessels and prevent further damage.
Focal Photocoagulation: A laser is used to treat leaky blood vessels in the macula, helping to prevent worsening of macular edema and blurry vision.
Vitrectomy: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove scar tissue or vitreous gel from the eye to restore vision and reattach the retina.