If you have diabetes, you may be aware of the toll this disease can take on the body. People with diabetes are susceptible to diabetic retinopathy, which poses a serious risk to their vision. Understanding how to prevent and treat this eye condition is essential for preserving the health of your eye. In this blog, Dr. Khouri explains what you can do to prevent diabetic retinopathy or treat the condition to limit its damaging effects.
When To See a Doctor
Diabetic retinopathy can come about with little to no initial effects. As it continues to develop, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Floaters (strings that appear to float in your field of vision)
- Blurry vision
- Vision that seems to fluctuate
- Dark areas in your vision
- Significant vision loss
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is time to visit Dr. Khouri for an examination.
Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy
You should know that preventing diabetic retinopathy is not always possible. However, your regular eye exams and early intervention may help you avoid significant loss of vision. If you suffer from diabetes, the following may help prevent your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy:
Manage your diabetes: As with many diabetes-related conditions, prevention can start with managing your diabetes. Work with a nutritionist to create a healthy eating plan. Incorporating exercise can also help. Make sure you take any prescribed diabetes medicine or insulin.
Monitor blood sugar: If you are diabetic, you may need to check your blood sugar throughout the day to ensure your levels are in the appropriate range.
Manage blood pressure and cholesterol: Unmanaged blood pressure and cholesterol can negatively affect your health and increase your risk for diabetic retinopathy.
Quit smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of complications related to diabetes. Consider asking your doctor for help with quitting.
Document any changes in vision: It is vital that you pay attention to the quality of your vision. Any sudden changes can indicate a problem, such as diabetic retinopathy.
Treatment Options
If you have developed diabetic retinopathy, there may be treatment options available to you. Dr. Khouri will work with you to determine if treatment is necessary. Treatment options include:
Laser treatment: This type of treatment can prevent vision loss if the retina has not yet been severely damaged.
Vitrectomy: This surgery is an ideal treatment for those with more advanced-stage retinopathy.
Anti-VEGF medicine: Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor medicines can be used to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels and to treat macular edema.
Schedule a Consultation
Don’t wait around for diabetic retinopathy to cause irreversible damage. Contact Palm Beach Eye Center today to schedule a consultation and take control of your eye health.
