Diabetes is associated with a wide range of health effects, which is why properly managing the chronic medical condition is so crucial. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when new blood vessels grow inside the eyes, which can cause the leakage of blood and the accumulation of fluid, thereby increasing pressure in the eyes.
Without treatment, diabetic retinopathy can result in vision loss. Fortunately, there are ways to stop the condition from adversely affecting one’s vision.
With diabetic retinopathy, new vessels develop when excessive blood sugar obstructs the flow of blood in the small vessels within the eyes. Injectable drugs called vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors stop new vessels from growing, which prevents pressure from increasing.
Management of diabetic retinopathy usually involves repeated injections. Doctors can alleviate discomfort during injections by applying topical anaesthesia. Vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors may be provided in conjunction with photocoagulation therapy, which seals leaking blood vessels using lasers.
People with diabetes must manage their blood sugar levels to avoid diabetic retinopathy and other ill-effects. Additionally, regular visits to an eye doctor are vital with this chronic condition. An eye doctor can detect diabetic retinopathy early on before major damage to the eyes has occurred.
There are other steps you can take to lower your risk of diabetic retinopathy:
You should also have your vision checked immediately if you notice any changes. Watch for blurriness, floaters, and dark areas, as these symptoms indicate the onset of diabetic retinopathy.