Diabetes and Your Eyes
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common complication of diabetes and a leading cause of blindness in adults. The good news? With proper monitoring and treatment, vision loss is largely preventable.
How Diabetes Damages the Retina
High blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. These vessels can leak, swell, or grow abnormally, eventually leading to vision loss.
Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
Non-Proliferative DR (NPDR): Early stage with microaneurysms and small hemorrhages. Vision may be unaffected.
Proliferative DR (PDR): Advanced stage where new, fragile blood vessels grow and can bleed into the vitreous — causing sudden vision loss.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Fluid accumulation in the macula causing blurring of central vision.
Treatment Options
- Intravitreal Injections: Anti-VEGF medications to reduce abnormal vessel growth and macular edema
- Laser Photocoagulation: Seals leaking vessels and reduces abnormal growth
- Vitrectomy: Surgery to remove vitreous hemorrhage or tractional retinal detachment
Prevention is Everything
Control your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. And get a dilated eye exam at least once a year — even if your vision seems fine.
Book a Diabetic Eye Screening
All diabetic patients should have regular eye checks. Book your diabetic retinopathy screening with Dr. Munawar Ali Bhatti at A B Vision Hospital today.