Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that affects people with diabetes. It happens due to damage to the blood vessels in the retina. The retina at the back of the eye is a light-sensitive tissue.

Diabetic retinopathy can cause various symptoms that lead to vision loss if left untreated. It is the most common cause of vision loss for individuals with diabetes and a leading cause of blindness among adults.

Comprehensive dilated eye exams are ideal at least every year if you have diabetes. Also, taking your medication, eating healthy, and being physically active can help prevent vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy may not show symptoms in the beginning. But if it is diagnosed early enough, you can start treatment to protect your vision. Read more to know how you can spot diabetic retinopathy.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

The early stage of the condition usually does not present any symptoms. Some individuals may notice slight vision changes. They may find it difficult to see objects far away or to read. However, such symptoms often come and go.

As diabetic retinopathy progresses, you begin noticing vision changes. In its later stages, the blood vessels in your retina begin bleeding into the fluid that looks like gel filling the eye, called the vitreous. As a result, you start seeing floating dark spots or cobweb-like streaks. They may clear up on their own. You may also experience the following symptoms:

• Blurred vision

• Poor night vision

• Empty or dark spot in your central vision

• Impaired color vision

• Streaks or patches that block your vision

• Sudden or total vision loss
   

Most of these symptoms may come and go. However, get treatment immediately as the bleeding can recur and get worse.

Who Is at Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy can affect anyone with diabetes. The risk increases if you have diabetes for a long time. Over time, more than 50 percent of individuals with diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy. Fortunately, you can lower your risk by managing your diabetes.

Pregnant women who develop diabetes or women who have diabetes and become pregnant are at a high risk of diabetic retinopathy. It is essential to have a comprehensive dilated eye exam if you are pregnant and have diabetes. Do so as soon as possible. Ideally, consult your doctor to know whether you will need more eye exams while pregnant.

Diabetic Retinopathy Risk Factors

Your risk of diabetic retinopathy can increase due to having diabetes for a long time and poor blood sugar level control. High cholesterol, high blood pressure, pregnancy, and smoking increase your risk.

Reducing Your Risk for Diabetic Retinopathy

You can reduce your risk of getting diabetic retinopathy by:
 

• Taking your prescribed diabetes medicine

• Controlling your cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels

• Attending all screening sessions

• Seeking medical help immediately if you notice vision changes

• Eating a healthy balanced diet

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Exercising

• Quitting smoking

When to See Your Doctor

The best way to prevent vision loss is to manage your diabetes. Take dilation eye exams annually if you have diabetes, even if your vision seems okay. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience sudden vision changes. Also, call them if your vision starts getting hazy, spotty, or blurry.

To learn more about diabetic retinopathy or to book a visit, call Clarity Vision at (252) 792-2250 to reach our office in Williamston, North Carolina.