Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss and blindness. It is a complication of diabetes, a chronic disease that affects how the body processes glucose (sugar). Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. As the blood vessels become damaged, they may leak blood or other fluids, leading to swelling and scarring in the retina. This can cause vision problems, including blurriness, difficulty seeing at night, and the need for brighter light to see clearly.

Types of diabetic retinopathy

There are two main types of diabetic retinopathy: non-proliferative and proliferative.

• Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) is the early stage of the condition and is characterised by swelling and small leaks in the blood vessels of the retina. This type of diabetic retinopathy usually does not cause vision loss, but it can progress to a more advanced stage if left untreated.
• Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is the more advanced stage of the condition and is characterised by the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels in the retina. These blood vessels are fragile and prone to bleeding, which can cause vision loss. PDR is the most serious type of diabetic retinopathy and can lead to blindness if left untreated.

SYMPTOMS

The general symptoms are as follows:

• • • Blurred vision: This is one of the most common symptoms of diabetic retinopathy. It may be caused by swelling in the retina or the presence of blood or other fluids in the eye.
    • Difficulty seeing at night: Some people with diabetic retinopathy may have trouble seeing clearly at night or in low-light conditions.
    • The need for brighter light to see clearly: Some people with diabetic retinopathy may need more light to see clearly, even during the day.
    • Seeing floaters or flashes of light: These are small spots or strands that float in front of the eye. They may be caused by the presence of blood or other fluids in the eye.
    • A change in the way you see colors: Some people with diabetic retinopathy may notice a change in the way they see colors, with some colours appearing more dull or faded.

    If you have diabetes and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy can help prevent vision loss and preserve your vision.

PROCEDURE FOR CURING DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

The specific treatment for diabetic retinopathy will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual needs of the patient. Here is an overview of some common treatment options:

• Laser surgery: Laser surgery, also known as photocoagulation, uses a focused beam of light to seal leaking blood vessels and reduce swelling in the retina. It is often used to treat non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), the early stage of the condition.
• Vitrectomy: A vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing blood from the eye and repairing damaged blood vessels. It is usually used to treat proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), the more advanced stage of the condition.
• Injections: Injections of medications such as anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) agents can be used to block the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels in the retina. These injections may be given in the doctor’s office or at home.
• Eye drops: Eye drops containing medications such as corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the retina.
• Follow-up care: After treatment for diabetic retinopathy, it is important for the patient to have regular eye exams to monitor for any changes in the condition.

It is important for people with diabetes to carefully manage their blood sugar levels and blood pressure to prevent the development of diabetic retinopathy. If diabetic retinopathy is detected early, it can often be effectively treated to preserve vision.