Diabetic Retinopathy FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Diabetic Retinopathy

People with diabetes must see an eye doctor at least once a year. High blood sugar increases the chances of glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Atlantic Eyecare in Virginia Beach, VA, looks at the facts about this common eye condition.

What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?

The retina is crucial to sight. It helps translate light into images. Diabetes causes high blood sugar, which damages or blocks blood vessels that support the retina to work properly. High blood sugar can also damage blood vessels all over the body.

Can Diabetic Retinopathy Cause Blindness?

The longer you delay treatment, the more likely you will go blind. Diabetic retinopathy also causes complications like neovascular glaucoma, which can also cause blindness.

What Factors Increase the Chance of Diabetic Retinopathy?

People with diabetes with high blood pressure and cholesterol are additionally more likely to get diabetic retinopathy than people with diabetes with normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Other risk factors include smoking, being overweight, and having cataract surgery. Talk to our optometrist or eye doctor about the risks of getting diabetic retinopathy if you already have cataracts.

Can Pregnant Women Get Diabetic Retinopathy?

Pregnant women can get diabetic retinopathy in two situations. The first is that they already have diabetes. The second is women who develop gestational diabetes. In both cases, women should get their eyes checked by an optometrist or eye doctor as soon as possible.

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy?

Symptoms include blurry vision, spotty vision, or seeing floaters. In these areas, you cannot see, develop hazy vision, sudden problems seeing faraway objects, and times when these symptoms keep coming and going.

How Are You Tested for Diabetic Retinopathy?

Your eyes are dilated so the retina can be examined. If you are sensitive to having your eyes widened, bring someone to drive you home from your appointment.

Schedule an Appointment with Us

If you have questions about diabetic retinopathy that have not been answered here and live in Virginia Beach, VA, contact Atlantic Eyecare at (757) 340-7070 to make an appointment today.

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