All About Diabetic Retinopathy
Learn the causes, symptoms, risk factors and treatment options for diabetic retinopathy, plus tips to protect your vision and eye health.
If you have diabetes, a simple test at your primary care provider’s office can help show if you may be at risk for diabetic retinopathy. This serious eye disease can lead to vision loss or even blindness if it is not found and treated early.
One challenge is that diabetic retinopathy often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular eye screenings are so important.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease caused by diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that helps you see.
When these blood vessels become damaged, your body may grow new ones to replace them. These new blood vessels are often weak and can leak or bleed. This can lead to serious eye problems, including:
- Blurry vision
- Diabetic macular edema (swelling in the retina)
- Glaucoma
- Retinal detachment
- Vision loss
The best way to lower your risk is to manage your diabetes. Staying active, eating healthy foods, taking your medications as prescribed, and keeping your blood sugar in a healthy range can help protect your eyes.
Symptoms of Retinopathy Screening
Because diabetic retinopathy often has no early warning signs, regular screenings are important.
At MetroHealth, we use a screening tool called LumineticsCore. During your diabetes checkup, we take two pictures of each eye, usually without dilating your pupils. The images are analyzed for signs of diabetic retinopathy.
In less than a minute, the screening provides results. If signs of diabetic retinopathy are found, we can refer you to an eye care specialist for further evaluation and treatment if needed.
Early detection can help protect your vision and keep your eyes healthy for years to come.
Ready to Schedule an Appointment?
To schedule an appointment with a primary care provider, call 216-MY-METRO (216-696-3876) or visit metrohealth.org/appointments.
Your Questions Answered
Q: What is diabetic retinopathy?
A. Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease that can happen when diabetes damages the small blood vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that helps you see. If it is not treated, it can cause vision problems and even vision loss.
Q: What are the signs of diabetic retinopathy?
A. Many people do not notice symptoms at first. As the disease gets worse, you may have blurry vision, see dark spots or floaters, have trouble seeing at night, or notice changes in your vision.
Q: How can I protect my eyes if I have diabetes?
A. Keeping your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control can help protect your eyes. It is also important to get a dilated eye exam every year so your eye doctor can find and treat problems early.