What is Diabetic Retinopathy? Symptoms, treatment, how to safeguard your vision

As the pervasive impact of diabetes continues to unveil its spectrum of health challenges, its effect on the eyes remains a critical concern. In a candid conversation with Dr Dilip Gude, Senior Consultant Physician at Yashoda Hospitals, Republic Digital delves into the intricacies of Diabetic Retinopathy, shedding light on its stages, symptoms, treatments and crucial prevention measures.

2 things you need to know

• Diabetic Retinopathy stems from long-term poor blood sugar control.
• Vision loss progresses with floaters, blurring and dark blotches.

Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy

Dr Gude begins by defining Diabetic Retinopathy as a complication arising from prolonged poor control of blood sugars, leading to irreversible damage to the retina. This deterioration, if left unchecked, can progress to partial or complete blindness, making it a significant threat to vision.

How Diabetic Retinopathy manifests itself

Highlighting the severity spectrum, Dr Gude spoke about the stages of Diabetic Retinopathy. He elucidated, “There are stages in diabetic retinopathy, where on the worst end of the spectrum lies proliferative diabetic retinopathy with neovascularization (new aberrant blood vessels and scarring in the retina). Glaucoma is also a complication in these patients.”

(There are stages in Diabetic Retinopathy | Image: X)

Signs and symbols: The visual clues of Diabetic Retinopathy

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy manifest progressively, with vision loss at the forefront. Patients often report floaters in their visual field, blurred vision and dark or empty blotches. Dr Gude points out that impaired glycemic control is a pivotal factor, while hypertension and dyslipidemia can hasten vision loss, creating a complex interplay of factors.

Treatment avenues

Turning to treatment, Dr Gude outlined approaches such as Pan Retinal photocoagulation, Anti-VEGF therapies and steroids. Surgical intervention, albeit rare, may be considered for the removal of blood and scar tissue. The multifaceted nature of treatment underscores the importance of a tailored approach to address varying degrees of retinopathy.

(Multifaceted nature of treatment are available | Image: X)

Prevention: The vanguard against vision loss

Dr Gude underscores that prevention is paramount as the onset of Diabetic Retinopathy is challenging to halt once initiated. Optimal sugar control stands as the cornerstone of preventive measures. Regular Fundus checks by an ophthalmologist, coupled with vigilant monitoring of blood pressure and lipid levels, are imperative for early diagnosis and intervention.

Overall, the menace of Diabetic Retinopathy is a stark reminder of the intricate web of health challenges woven by diabetes. Dr Gude’s insights serve as a guide, urging individuals to prioritise preventive measures, optimal sugar control and proactive eye care to safeguard their vision against this silent threat.