Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that can affect individuals with diabetes, potentially leading to vision loss if left untreated. At Atlantic Eyecare in Virginia Beach, VA, our team of experienced optometrists is dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care services, including diagnosis and management of diabetic retinopathy. If you have questions about diabetic retinopathy, read on for answers to some common FAQs.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. High levels of blood sugar associated with diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage, swelling, and the formation of new abnormal blood vessels. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss or even blindness.
What are the Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy?
In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, individuals may experience symptoms such as blurry or distorted vision, floaters (dark spots or strings in the field of vision), difficulty seeing at night, or sudden loss of vision. Regular eye exams by an optometrist near you are essential for early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed?
Diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include visual acuity testing, dilated eye exam, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography. These tests help your optometrist evaluate the health of your retina and detect any signs of diabetic retinopathy.
What are the Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy?
Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on the severity of the condition and may include laser therapy (such as focal laser treatment or scatter laser treatment), intravitreal injections of medication (such as anti-VEGF drugs), or surgical procedures (such as vitrectomy). The goal of treatment is to prevent further vision loss and preserve remaining vision.
Seek Expert Care for Diabetic Retinopathy at Atlantic Eyecare
If you have diabetes or are at risk of diabetic retinopathy, it's crucial to prioritize regular eye exams and proactive management of your eye health. Contact Atlantic Eyecare in Virginia Beach, VA, to schedule an appointment with an experienced optometrist near you. Call us today at (757) 340-7070 to take the first step towards preserving your vision and overall eye health.
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent vision loss. Don't wait until symptoms arise – schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Atlantic Eyecare to ensure early detection and intervention if needed.