Diabetes is a condition many people battle but what many don’t know is that diabetes can cause significant ocular issues too. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that damages the blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. At Dolman Eyecare , we provide advanced screening, early detection, and management strategies to help protect your eyesight.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. Over time, these vessels may weaken, swell, leak, or become blocked, leading to vision changes and, in severe cases, blindness. The condition progresses through four stages:
- Mild Nonproliferative Retinopathy – Small areas of swelling appear in the blood vessels, often without symptoms.
- Moderate Nonproliferative Retinopathy – Blood flow to the retina is reduced, and some vessels begin to leak.
- Severe Nonproliferative Retinopathy – More vessels become blocked, leading to the formation of abnormal new blood vessels.
- Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy – The most advanced stage, where fragile new blood vessels grow, increasing the risk of retinal detachment and severe vision loss.
Who is at Risk for Diabetic Retinopathy?
Anyone with diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes—can develop diabetic retinopathy. Additional risk factors include:
- High blood sugar levels
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Having diabetes for many years
Regular eye exams are essential for detecting diabetic retinopathy early, even before symptoms appear.
Signs and Symptoms
In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms. As the condition progresses, patients may notice:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Vision loss in advanced cases
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.
Comprehensive Diabetic Eye Exams
At Dolman Eyecare , we use state-of-the-art technology to monitor and manage diabetic retinopathy. Our diabetic eye exams include:
- Dilated Eye Exam: A thorough evaluation of the retina to detect early changes.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): High-resolution imaging to assess retinal thickness and detect swelling.
- Fundus Photography: Digital imaging to track progression over time.
- Fluorescein Angiography (when necessary): A specialized test to assess blood vessel health.
Treatment and Management
While early diabetic retinopathy may not require immediate treatment, careful monitoring and lifestyle adjustments can slow its progression. Our team provides personalized recommendations, which may include:
- Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Control: Managing diabetes effectively can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation can help maintain eye health.
- Medical Treatments: In advanced cases, treatments such as laser therapy, injections, or surgery may be necessary to preserve vision.
Prioritize Your Eye Health
Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness, but early detection and management can make all the difference. Regular diabetic eye exams at Dolman Eyecare in New Hamburg ensure that any changes are detected and treated promptly.