Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition caused by diabetes. It affects the blood vessels in the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. High blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage these blood vessels, leading to potential vision problems and blindness. Prior to visiting Slingsby & Huot Eye Associates in Rapid City, SD, continue reading to learn about some causes and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy!
Diabetic Retinopathy Types
There are two main types of diabetic retinopathy, including:
• Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR): NPDR is the early stage of diabetic retinopathy. It occurs when the blood vessels in the retina become weakened and may leak fluid or blood. This stage is often asymptomatic but can lead to vision changes over time. NPDR is categorized into mild, moderate, and severe forms, depending on the extent of damage to the blood vessel
• Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR): PDR is a more advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy. It develops when new, abnormal blood vessels start to grow on the retina and the optic nerve. These new vessels are fragile and prone to bleeding, which can lead to severe vision loss or blindness. PDR is often associated with more severe vision problems and requires more intensive treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of diabetic retinopathy is prolonged high blood sugar levels, which damage the blood vessels in the retina. Risk factors include poor blood sugar control, long-term diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of diabetes. Smoking and pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Diabetic retinopathy may not show symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, symptoms can include blurry vision, floaters, and difficulty seeing at night. Severe cases can lead to significant vision loss, which makes regular eye exams crucial for early detection. Our eye doctors use various diagnostic tools, such as a dilated eye exam, to check for changes in the retina and diagnose diabetic retinopathy.
Treatment Options
Treatment for diabetic retinopathy aims to prevent further damage and preserve vision. We may recommend controlling blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol through medication and lifestyle changes. For more advanced cases, treatments like laser therapy, eye injections, or surgery may be needed to manage the condition and protect your vision.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today
If you have diabetes or are at risk for diabetic retinopathy, contact Slingsby & Huot Eye Associates at (605) 719-9499 today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Early intervention is key to managing diabetic retinopathy and preserving your vision. We also have outreach clinics in Rapid City, Belle Fourche, and Spearfish, SD, as well as Chardon, NE, that can provide personalized care. When you’re seeking an ophthalmologist near you, we look forward to assisting you!