Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes affecting the patient’s eyes. The condition alters the blood vessels in the sensitive retina. The damaged blood vessels often swell and bleed or leak fluid, causing vision loss or blindness. 

The condition usually affects both eyes and, if not treated, can cause scarring or permanent damage to the retina. If you have diabetes, it is vital to understand diabetic retinopathy and how to prevent vision loss. 

Developing Diabetic Retinopathy 

Anyone who has diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy. The condition usually manifests in people who have had diabetes for long and have less control over their blood sugar. If the blood sugar level remains high for a prolonged period, it can cause blockage of the retina blood vessels. The disease is the most common cause of blindness or vision loss in people with diabetes. 

Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy 

The tiny blood vessels help keep the retina healthy. After the damage, the eyes try to develop new vessels, but they are abnormal. It causes the blood vessels to weaken, leaking blood or fluid into the retina. 

It can cause macular edema and result in blurry vision. As the condition worsens, more vessels become blocked. The buildup of scar tissue from the new abnormal vessels can apply pressure to the retina, causing detachment. 

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy 

Like most serious eye diseases, diabetic retinopathy may not exhibit symptoms in the early stages. When the symptoms develop, they include:
 

• Loss of central vision

• Blurry vision

• Inability to see colors

• Floaters in the vision

• Black spots or holes in the vision

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy will continue to worsen over time. The condition develops through stages. These are:
 

• Stage one - Mild nonproliferative retinopathy

• Stage two - Moderate nonproliferative retinopathy

• Stage three - Severe nonproliferative retinopathy

• Stage four - Proliferative diabetic retinopathy

The condition is easier to treat during the mild and moderate stages. When it gets to the proliferative stage, it can lead to blindness. 

How to Prevent Vision Loss
 

Diabetic retinopathy is not always preventable, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Controlling your blood sugar levels and scheduling regular eye exams can help prevent the disease. Things you can do to manage your diabetes include eating a healthy diet, exercising daily, and taking medications as directed. 

Monitoring your blood sugar levels frequently is essential. You can talk to your doctor about a glycosylated hemoglobin test. Ensure that you keep your cholesterol and blood pressure under control. Avoid smoking and tobacco products use as they increase the risk of complications. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience vision changes.  

Some people have a higher risk of developing diabetic retinopathy than others. If you have had diabetes for a long time, make sure you visit your doctor regularly. Frequent dilated eye exams can help detect the condition before symptoms manifest. Early treatment can help prevent complications such as vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and blindness. 

For more on diabetic retinopathy and how to prevent vision loss, visit Long View Eye Center at our Lewisburg, West Virginia office. Call (304) 520-3630 to schedule an appointment today.