Diabetic Retinopathy

A serious complication of diabetes that can lead to blindness.

According to the CDC, nearly one-third of adults over 40 with diabetes have diabetic retinopathy. Rates are even higher among African- and Mexican-Americans.

If you suffer from diabetes, call Family Vision Care San Diego today or schedule an appointment online for a comprehensive eye exam.

What is diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that affects your eyes. It is the number one cause of vision loss in diabetic patients.

This condition is caused by damage to the blood vessels of the retina. It leads to bleeding, swelling, and abnormal blood vessel growth. The longer you have diabetes and the less controlled your blood sugar is, the more likely you are to develop this eye condition.

What are the symptoms?

Diabetic retinopathy often causes few (if any) symptoms early on. You may only notice minor vision issues. Left untreated, it can lead to blindness.

Anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy. It's important to have regular comprehensive eye exams. The disease typically affects both eyes. As it gets worse, you may notice:

• Empty or dark areas in your vision
• Fluctuating vision
• Dark strings and/or spots (“floaters”)
• Loss of vision
• Reduction in color vision

Managing your diabetes with a doctor — including regular visits to the eye doctor — is the best way to prevent vision loss.

Even with regular yearly visits, if you notice sudden symptoms above, make an appointment right away.

Complications from diabetic retinopathy

Vitreous hemorrhage

New blood vessels can leak into the vitreous (the jelly-like center of the eye), causing floaters or even blocking your vision completely.

Retinal detachment

Abnormal blood vessels cause scar tissue, which can pull the retina away from the back of your eye. This may cause flashes of light, severe vision loss, or new floaters.

Glaucoma

Abnormal blood vessels growing into the eye’s front area can block fluid flow, raising eye pressure. This may damage the optic nerve if left untreated.

Blindness

Over time, diabetic retinopathy or its complications can lead to permanent vision loss.

At Family Vision Care San Diego, we help our patients protect their vision for life. Call us today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about diabetic retinopathy and how we can help.