Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy (मधुमेह संबंधी रेटिनोपैथी)
Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) is the early stage of diabetic retinopathy, characterized by damage to the retina’s blood vessels due to high blood sugar levels. In NPDR, the blood vessels weaken, causing microaneurysms, which are tiny bulges that can leak fluid and blood. This leakage leads to retinal swelling and the formation of hard exudates. Patients with NPDR may experience mild vision problems, but often the condition is asymptomatic in its early stages. Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and management, as controlling blood sugar levels can slow the progression of NPDR to more severe stages.
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is the advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy, where new, abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina and into the vitreous gel. These vessels are fragile and prone to bleeding, leading to vitreous hemorrhage, which can cause severe vision loss. Scar tissue from the abnormal vessels may also cause retinal detachment. Symptoms of PDR include blurred vision, floaters, and dark spots in the visual field. Without prompt treatment, PDR can lead to blindness. Treatment options include laser photocoagulation, vitrectomy, and anti-VEGF injections to prevent further blood vessel growth and preserve vision.
Types of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a diabetes-related complication that affects the eyes, specifically the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It occurs when high blood sugar levels cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to various stages of the disease. In the early stage, known as non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), the blood vessels weaken, bulge, and may leak, causing retinal swelling and the formation of deposits.
As the condition progresses to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), new, abnormal blood vessels begin to grow on the surface of the retina. These new vessels are fragile and prone to bleeding, which can cause severe vision problems and even blindness. Symptoms of DR can include blurred vision, dark spots or floaters, impaired color vision, and ultimately, vision loss. Early detection through regular eye examinations is crucial for managing and treating diabetic retinopathy.
Treatment options vary based on the severity of the condition and may include blood sugar control, laser surgery to seal or shrink leaking blood vessels, vitrectomy to remove blood from the vitreous gel, or the use of anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections to reduce the growth of new blood vessels. Maintaining good control of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels is essential for preventing the onset and progression of diabetic retinopathy, highlighting the importance of comprehensive diabetes management in preserving vision and overall eye health.
Partial or Total Loss
of Vision
Blurred Vision
Dark Spots or Strings (Floaters)
Treatments
At Comet Eye Hospitals, various treatment options are available for diabetic retinopathy:
- Intravitreal Injections:- Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections can inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce leakage.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: These medications help reduce inflammation and swelling in the retina, slowing the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
- Laser Photocoagulation: This technique uses a laser to seal or shrink abnormal blood vessels and reduce swelling in the retina.
- Close Monitoring: Regular eye examinations and close monitoring of blood sugar levels are essential for managing diabetic retinopathy effectively.