Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a consequence of diabetes that damages the eyes. Damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue in the rear of the eye causes this condition (retina). Diabetic retinopathy may cause no symptoms or just minor vision abnormalities at first. However, it has the potential to cause blindness. Anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can develop the illness. This eye issue is more likely to develop the longer you have diabetes and the less well your blood sugar is controlled.

In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, you may not notice any symptoms. As the illness worsens, you may experience:

– Spots or dark strings appear in your field of view (floaters)
– Vision is hazy
– Vision that shifts from one moment to the next
– In your eyesight, there are dark or empty places.
– Loss of vision

Too much sugar in your blood can cause the tiny blood vessels that nourish your retina to get blocked over time, cutting off its blood supply. As a result, the eye makes an effort to form new blood vessels. However, these new blood vessels do not form properly and are prone to leakage.

Diabetic retinopathy is not always preventable. Regular eye checkups, proper blood sugar, and blood pressure control, and early care for vision disorders, on the other hand, can help prevent serious vision loss.

Reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy if you have diabetes by doing the following:
Take control of your diabetes. Make a healthy diet and exercise a regular part of your day. Each week, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, such as walking. Follow the directions on your diabetes medicine or insulin.

Keep an eye on your blood sugar levels. You may need to check and record your blood sugar level many times a day — or even more often if you’re sick or stressed. Inquire with your doctor about how often you should test your blood sugar.

References:

Diabetic retinopathy – symptoms, and causes. (2021, June 24). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371611