Diabetic retinopathy is a progressive eye disease that damages the existing blood vessels in the retina and causes abnormal blood vessels to grow on the retina. This is triggered by chronic high blood sugar levels. Any leakage of fluids from these blood vessels can cause permanent vision loss in Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetics.
Non-proliferative retinopathy (NPDR) is the early stage of the disease where blood vessels on the retina start to swell (mild non-proliferative retinopathy). Over time the blood vessels distort, blocking blood from its normal passage flow (moderate non-proliferative retinopathy).
Proliferative retinopathy (PDR) is an advanced stage of retinopathy where abnormal, fragile blood vessels have grown on the inside surface of the retina to compensate for the lack of blood flow (proliferative diabetic retinopathy).
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) often occurs with diabetic retinopathy. Fluid (called edema) builds up in the macula, the central part of the retina. Macular edema can damage the central vision if not treated promptly.
All diabetics are especially susceptible to vision problems. It is absolutely imperative that you have regular dilated eye exams to monitor your retinal health so conditions like diabetic retinopathy can be diagnosed as early as possible. Initial problems may not be noticed in your vision; however, as the condition progresses you will begin to experience:
Dr. Pendleton will recommend dilated eye exams. Depending on the severity of your condition, he will provide a treatment solution that can prevent, treat, or sometimes even reverse damage from diabetes in the retina.
Dr. Pendleton’s recommendations may include:
To learn more about macular degeneration in Oceanside, California, contact us today.
