Diabetic retinopathy is a serious condition affecting millions of people living with diabetes. It involves changes to retinal blood vessels that can lead to vision impairment. Early detection and treatment are key to managing this condition effectively. Below, the doctors at Schwartz Laser Eye Center offer a comprehensive overview of diabetic retinopathy, covering its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and how you can access our services for support and care.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy often begins without any noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, you might experience:
- Blurred vision or fluctuating vision clarity.
- Dark or empty areas in your field of vision.
- The presence of floaters, which are dark spots or strings that float in your vision.
- Difficulty with night vision.
- Colors appearing washed out or faded.
- Red eyes
It’s crucial to monitor these symptoms closely, especially if you have diabetes, as they may signify the onset or progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Diagnosing Diabetic Retinopathy
Early diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy is vital for effective management and treatment. If a doctor notices retinal scar tissue, leaked blood in the vitreous, or optic nerve issues, this may be indicative of diabetic retinopathy. At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, our approach includes:
- A comprehensive eye examination that assesses your vision and eye health.
- Fundus photography, which captures detailed images of the retina to identify any changes or abnormalities.
- Fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography (OCT) to evaluate the health of retinal blood vessels and the retina’s structure, respectively.
These diagnostic tools help our specialists accurately detect diabetic retinopathy in its early stages, allowing for timely intervention.
Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment Options
Early stages of diabetic retinopathy are best handled with diligent diabetes management. By controlling your blood sugar levels, you can help prevent the condition from advancing. Advanced cases of diabetic retinopathy can require treatment such as:
Laser Surgery (Photocoagulation)
Laser surgery is a cornerstone treatment for diabetic retinopathy and is particularly effective in the early stages of the disease. This procedure involves the precise application of laser light to targeted areas of the retina. For proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the laser seals off leaking blood vessels and discourages new, abnormal vessels from forming. In cases of macular edema, focal laser treatment stabilizes vision by reducing swelling in the central retina. Although laser surgery can’t restore lost vision, it’s instrumental in preventing further vision loss.
Intravitreal Injections
Intravitreal injections deliver medication directly into the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside the eye, near the retina. These medications include anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) agents, which help reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels and decrease fluid leakage, and corticosteroids, which can reduce inflammation and swelling. This treatment can slow down the progression of diabetic retinopathy and, in some cases, improve vision. The procedure requires regular monitoring and repeat injections to maintain its effectiveness.
Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy is recommended for advanced diabetic retinopathy, especially when there’s significant bleeding in the vitreous or scar tissue formation affecting the retina. During this surgical procedure, the ophthalmologist removes the vitreous gel along with any blood and scar tissue, allowing light rays to focus properly on the retina again.
Protect Your Vision at Schwartz Laser Eye Center
If you or a loved one has diabetes, regular eye exams are essential to catch diabetic retinopathy in its early stages. Schwartz Laser Eye Center is here to support you every step of the way — from diagnosis to treatment. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. If you live in Scottsdale, Glendale, Phoenix, or Mesa, schedule an appointment to ensure that your eyes are healthy. Call (480) 483-3937 today.
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