Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious ocular condition that arises due to Diabetes and affects the eyes of a person.
If left untreated, this condition can even result in vision loss in an individual.
It is important to know about the Diabetic Retinopathy symptoms in order to receive the proper treatments.
A person can experience symptoms like blurred vision, floaters, pain or pressure in the eyes, and even vision loss.
This article will discuss the signs of Diabetic Retinopathy and its available treatments.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy
As the name suggests, Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication that arises due to Diabetes in a person.
It refers to the damage to blood vessels in the retina due to high blood sugar levels.
These blood vessels that suffer damage due to this condition are the ones that nourish the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
The high blood sugar levels weaken these blood vessels, which can lead to various stages of Diabetic Retinopathy.
This condition can also lead to complications like retinal detachment and vitreous hemorrhage.
The hemorrhage results from the bleeding of the blood vessels into the vitreous humor, which is the fluid that fills up the eyes.
Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms
There are several symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy, and it can range from the early stages to the later stage symptoms.
A person with Diabetic Retinopathy can experience changes in their vision, which worsens with time.
As the symptoms progress, some may even notice flashing lights and floaters in their line of vision.
This section will discuss the above-mentioned symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy.
Early Stage Symptoms
Source: Siganture_imagesAccording to research, the early stage of Diabetic Retinopathy usually does not have many symptoms.
The affected person experiences mild changes or fluctuations in their vision, making it difficult to read or see far-away objects.
An individual can also simultaneously face difficulty in identifying the colors accurately.
Progression Symptoms
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) states that as the symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy progress, the vision of a person gets worse.
They start experiencing eye floaters and can see dark areas in their field of vision.
The affected people might notice that their vision may improve or worsen throughout the course of the day.
Some individuals might struggle with poor night vision and decreased perception of contrast.
Severe Symptoms
According to a study, Diabetic Retinopathy may threaten one’s vision in severe cases.
It is one of the leading causes of severe vision loss among the working age group people.
Some people might also notice pain in their eyes and an increase in eye pressure, which might lead to Glaucoma.
The dark spots in the line of one’s vision will increase, heavily affecting one’s lifestyle.
Treatments of Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms
Source: bojanstory_from_Getty_ImagesIt is important to know about the symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy since it requires early treatments.
Individuals can choose laser therapy to seal or reduce the leaking blood vessels.
Doctors may also suggest injections to reduce the swelling or reduce the abnormal growth of blood vessels.
Another study states that Vitrectomy can also be highly beneficial for treating Diabetic Retinopathy.
The procedure can help remove the blood or scar tissue from the vitreous gel in the eye.
Conclusion
Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious eye condition that refers to the damage of blood vessels in the retina due to Diabetes.
Individuals with the condition may experience early symptoms like mild changes in vision and difficulty in color perception.
However, the progressing Diabetic Retinopathy symptoms include eye floaters, poor night vision, lack of contrast perception, and worsening vision.
However, in severe cases, people may notice vision loss if it remains untreated.
Doctors often suggest Vitrectomy laser therapy, and injection to seal or reduce the leaking blood vessels.
If you are persistently experiencing floaters, it is best to consult your doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should someone with Diabetes get an eye exam for diabetic retinopathy?
People with Diabetes should undergo an annual dilated eye exam for proper diagnosis. If there are signs of Diabetic Retinopathy, doctors may suggest more frequent exams for early detection and timely treatment.
What are the risk factors that cause Diabetic Retinopathy symptoms?
The risk factors for Diabetic Retinopathy symptoms include prolonged Diabetes, high blood pressure, Obesity, pregnancy, and smoking.
Additionally, factors like kidney disease and heritage like African-American, Hispanic, or Native American can increase the risk of Diabetic Retinopathy.
Can Diabetic Retinopathy be reversed?
No, Diabetic Retinopathy cannot be reversed. However, if it is diagnosed in the early stages, proper treatments can help one manage the progression.
How do doctors diagnose Diabetic Retinopathy symptoms?
Doctors usually diagnose Diabetic Retinopathy using dilated eye examination. They may also use eye exam tests like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), Fluorescein Angiography, and visual acuity tests.
Are there home remedies to prevent Diabetic Retinopathy symptoms?
No, there are no home remedies to prevent Diabetic Retinopathy symptoms. However, lifestyle changes like exercising, controlling one’s blood pressure, and eating in check can reduce risks.
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