Diabetic Retinopathy - Dr Rishi Website

Diabetic Retinopathy

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What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious eye condition caused by diabetes, which damages the blood vessels of the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye).

High blood sugar levels over time weaken and leak these blood vessels, leading to vision problems and potential blindness if not treated early.

It is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in adults.

Types of Diabetic Retinopathy

1. Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)

• Early stage
•Blood vessels weaken and leak fluid or blood
•Retina may swell (macular edema)
•Mild to moderate vision problems

2. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

• Advanced stage
•New abnormal blood vessels grow
•These vessels can bleed inside the eye
•Can lead to retinal detachment and severe vision loss

3. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

• Swelling in the central retina (macula)
•Causes blurred or distorted central vision
•Can occur at any stage

Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy

You are at higher risk if you have:
•Long duration of diabetes
•Poor blood sugar control (high HbA1c)
•Hypertension (high BP)
•High cholesterol levels
•Kidney disease
•Pregnancy (in diabetic women)
•Smoking
•Obesity

Tests to Diagnose Diabetic Retinopathy

Early detection can prevent vision loss. Key tests include:

1. Dilated Fundus Examination

Detailed retina check after pupil dilation

2. OCT

Detects retinal swelling (macular edema)

3. Fundus Photography

Documents retina changes for monitoring

4. Fluorescein Angiography

Shows blood vessel leakage and blockages

5. Visual Acuity Test

Measures clarity of vision

Common Symptoms (Usually Late Stage)

  • Blurred or fluctuating vision
  • Dark spots or floaters
  • Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
  • Sudden vision loss

Why Regular Eye Checkups are Important

  • Detect disease before symptoms appear
  • Prevent progression with early treatment
  • Essential for all diabetic patients
  • Helps monitor retinal health over time

Frequently Asked Question:

What causes diabetic retinopathy?

It is caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the retinal blood vessels over time.

It cannot be completely cured, but it can be managed and controlled with early treatment.

Not all, but the risk increases with duration and poor sugar control.

Everyone above 40 years should get regular eye checkups.

Usually no symptoms in early stages. Regular screening is essential.

At least once a year, or more frequently if advised.

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