Diabetic Retinopathy: Vision Loss Due to Diabetes

Are you experiencing vision problems due to diabetes? This condition can be a direct consequence of diabetic retinopathy. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. 

Early intervention and management techniques can help reduce the complications of diabetic eye disease. In fact, as per a study, about 98% of vision impairment due to diabetic retinopathy can be avoided by prompt screening and treatment. Let us understand this condition in detail to learn how to prevent vision loss due to diabetes.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina (soft tissue behind the eye). The high blood sugar level can lead to:

• Leakage of fluid from the blood vessels, causing swelling (macular oedema): Diabetic retinopathy can lead to fluid leaking from damaged blood vessels, resulting in swelling of the retina’s central area (macula) and affecting vision.

• Blockage of blood vessels, depriving the retina of oxygen and nutrients: When blood vessels in the retina become blocked, essential oxygen and nutrients cannot reach the retina, potentially impairing vision.

• Growth of abnormal new blood vessels (proliferative diabetic retinopathy): In advanced stages, abnormal new blood vessels may form in the retina, which can cause further vision problems and potential damage.

The above problems lead to several symptoms, resulting in visual complications.

Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms

Since it is a progressive condition, diabetic retinopathy may not present many symptoms in the early stages. However, as the condition advances, several signs might occur, including:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision: Diabetic retinopathy can cause your vision to become unclear or vary unpredictably due to damage to the retina’s blood vessels.

• Floaters: The appearance of small, drifting spots or threads in your vision can indicate bleeding or fluid leakage in the retina, a common issue in this condition.

• Impaired colour vision: Difficulty distinguishing colours affects the retina's ability to perceive colours correctly.

• Difficulty seeing at night: Struggling to see in dim light can be a sign of elevated blood sugar levels impacting the retina's function in low-light conditions.

In more advanced stages, the symptoms become more severe, such as:

• Dark spots or shadows in the vision

• Complete vision loss

If you’re experiencing one or more of the above signs and symptoms, seeking a proper diagnosis is essential. However, first, we must understand more about this condition.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy and their Effect on Eyesight

Diabetic retinopathy develops through several stages. These include:

• Mild Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: This early stage involves tiny areas of swelling in the retina's blood vessels. Vision may still be normal.

• Moderate Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: The blood vessels in the retina become more damaged, leading to reduced blood flow, which can result in mild vision changes.

• Severe Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: Many blood vessels become blocked, further restricting blood supply to the retina and increasing the risk of vision loss.

• Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (Advanced Stage): New, abnormal blood vessels form on the retina's surface, which can leak blood and cause serious vision problems, including retinal detachment and blindness.

As we can see above, each stage of diabetic retinopathy affects normal vision and reduces retinal functionality. What leads to this condition, and how does it result in vision loss? Let us see this below.

Factors Leading to Vision Loss Due to Diabetes

The primary cause of diabetic retinopathy is prolonged elevated blood sugar levels, which damage the retinal blood vessels. Other contributing factors include:

• High blood pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension can accelerate the damage to blood vessels in the retina.

• Duration of diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, especially if poorly managed, the higher the risk of developing retinopathy.

These causes can lead to leakage of fluid and blood into the retina, causing swelling and affecting vision. Moreover, some factors like poorly controlled blood sugar levels and being pregnant may increase the probability of damage and can even lead to diabetes, causing blindness.

Managing and Preventing Vision Loss Due to Diabetes

Managing diabetic retinopathy requires a proactive approach to both diabetes and eye health. Here are some key strategies to manage and prevent vision loss:

• Control Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: Maintaining stable blood sugar and managing blood pressure help slow the progression of retinopathy.

• Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams allow timely treatment before significant vision loss occurs. Eye specialists can use advanced imaging to track changes in the retina.

• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help preserve overall health and eye function.

• Medications and Treatments: For advanced stages, medications or injections that target retinal swelling and abnormal blood vessels can be beneficial. 

• Education and Support: Educating yourself about diabetes and joining support groups can offer valuable resources and motivation. 

Adhering to treatment plans and making lifestyle changes are essential for preventing vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy Can Be Managed with the Right Strategy

Timely intervention is key to managing diabetic retinopathy and preventing vision loss. If you have diabetes, scheduling regular eye exams is important for early detection and treatment of this condition. With the right care and lifestyle changes, it's possible to protect your vision and manage diabetic retinopathy effectively. Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule an appointment with an experienced ophthalmologist to keep your eyes healthy.

Netralayam’s Eye Care Professionals Can Help Protect Your Vision

At Netralayam, our specialists offer comprehensive care & vitreoretinal services for diabetic retinopathy, including advanced laser treatments. We also provide complete information on our specialised treatments, including diabetic retinopathy laser treatment recovery time, to help you understand what to expect. Take the first step in preserving your vision.  Schedule an appointment with us today.