Understanding and Managing Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy, a potential complication of diabetes, is a progressive eye disease affecting the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Elevated blood sugar levels lead to damage to the blood vessels, resulting in leakage, swelling, and, if left unmanaged, potential vision loss.

While early stages may be asymptomatic, in later stages of diabetic retinopathy you might experience:
1. Blurred or fluctuating vision.
2. Dark or empty spots in the field of vision.
3. Eye floaters and spots.
4. Difficulty perceiving colors.
5. Impaired night vision.
If you experience any of these symptoms, call us at 231-723-9911 right away.

There are several proactive measures individuals can take to mitigate the effects of diabetic retinopathy:
1. Diabetic Control: Strict control of blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, medication compliance, and a healthy lifestyle significantly lowers the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
2. Regular Eye Examinations: Routine eye exams, including thorough retinal evaluations, allow for early detection and timely intervention, limiting vision impairment.
3. Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Management: Effective management of blood pressure and cholesterol levels helps reduce the risk of retinopathy progression.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and moderating alcohol consumption all contribute to overall diabetes management, indirectly protecting vision health.