Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. However, with early detection and proper management, 90% of diabetes-related vision loss is preventable. At Netra Jyoti Center, we specialize in helping diabetic patients maintain healthy vision for life.
The Link Between Diabetes and Eye Health
High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including the delicate vessels in your eyes. Over time, this damage can lead to several eye conditions:
Diabetic Retinopathy
Damage to the blood vessels in the retina.
Cataracts
Diabetics are 2-5x more likely to develop cataracts early.
Glaucoma
Increased risk of high eye pressure damaging the optic nerve.
Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common diabetic eye disease. It occurs when high blood sugar blocks the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina, cutting off its blood supply. As a result, the eye attempts to grow new blood vessels. But these new vessels don't develop properly and can leak easily.
Stages of Retinopathy
- Mild Nonproliferative: Tiny swellings occur in the retina's blood vessels.
- Moderate Nonproliferative: Blood vessels that nourish the retina are blocked.
- Severe Nonproliferative: Many more blood vessels are blocked, depriving areas of the retina of blood supply.
- Proliferative Retinopathy: The advanced stage where new, fragile vessels grow along the retina and surface of the vitreous gel. If they leak blood, severe vision loss can result.
Warning Signs
In the early stages, diabetic eye disease has no symptoms. You may not notice pain or vision changes until the condition becomes severe. This is why regular exams are critical.
As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Spots or dark strings floating in your vision (floaters)
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Impaired color vision
- Dark or empty areas in your vision
- Vision loss
When to See Dr. Maurya
If you have diabetes, you should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, blurriness that doesn't go away, or new floaters, contact us immediately.
Top 5 Prevention Tips
Protect Your Vision Today
- Control Your ABCs: A1C (Blood Sugar), Blood Pressure, and Cholesterol. Keeping these in range is your best defense.
- Yearly Eye Exams: Don't skip them! We can spot damage before you can see it.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related complications.
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps manage blood sugar.
- Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Treatment Options
Depending on the stage of the disease, treatment options at Netra Jyoti Center may include:
Anti-VEGF Injections
Medicines injected into the eye to stop the growth of new blood vessels and reduce fluid buildup.
Laser Treatment
Photocoagulation laser surgery can seal leaking blood vessels and shrink abnormal blood vessels.
Vitrectomy
Surgery to remove blood from the vitreous (the center of the eye) and scar tissue from the retina.
Common Questions
Can diabetic retinopathy be reversed?
Damage from diabetic retinopathy is often permanent, but treatment can stop it from getting worse and sometimes improve vision slightly. Prevention is key.
Does high blood sugar always cause blindness?
Not always, but it significantly increases the risk. Consistent blood sugar control greatly reduces the likelihood of severe vision loss.
How often should I get my eyes checked?
At least once a year. If you have existing retinopathy, Dr. Maurya may recommend more frequent visits.
Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam
Don't wait for symptoms. Early detection is the best way to save your sight.
