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Posted by: Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication that can develop in anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and can have mild or severe consequences depending on when and how it is treated. At Mitchell Eye Center we treat our patients on an individualized basis. As your ophthalmologist in Boca Raton, FL, Dr. Alan Mitchell applies his years of experience and education to every case, be it LASIK surgery, a complex eye condition, or a cosmetic procedure. Our diabetic patients may be experiencing or are at risk for a complication called Diabetic retinoplasty, so here are 10 facts to help you understand this condition.

About Diabetic Retinopathy

1. Diabetic retinopathy is caused when high blood sugar damages the retina, which is the layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for sensing light and sending images to the brain.
2. The early stages of diabetic retinopathy can be asymptomatic, with no noticeable changes in vision. Eventually, mild symptoms emerge, such as mild near or farsightedness, which may come and go.
3. Damaged blood vessels will affect the vision more and more as they bleed into the eye, causing dark spots that look like cobwebs, gaps in vision, and blurred vision.
4. The most severe cases of diabetic retinopathy result in vision loss and blindness.
5. Diabetic retinopathy has also been found to cause other eye conditions, such as types of glaucoma, and diabetic macular edema which affects the part of the retina that senses detail.

Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment

1. A dilated eye exam can detect even the earliest stages of diabetic retinopathy, allowing early treatment to prevent further damage to the eye, preserving the patient’s vision.
2. The longer you have diabetes, the greater your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
3. Carefully controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels help prevent diabetic retinopathy.
4. Lower your risk further by taking diabetes medication as prescribed, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, keeping physically active, and eating a healthy diet.
5. Diabetic retinopathy can be treated with medicine, laser treatment, and if necessary, surgery.

Contact a Specialist Today

If you have type 1 or 2 diabetes, it is a good idea to get your vision checked regularly for signs of diabetic retinopathy. For comprehensive eye care and state-of-the-art treatment, visit our Boca Raton, FL eye center. Read our reviews and testimonials, and check out our wide range of offerings from cataract surgery to providing prescription and blue light glasses. Discover exceptional service at Mitchell Eye Center.