Diabetic Retinopathy

By Samuel H. Yun, MD

Samuel H. Yun Ophthalmology, PLC

. https://www.yuneyecare.com/

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Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working-age Americans. However, with appropriate treatments, the damage to the eye from diabetes may be successfully managed in order to preserve the vision as long as possible.

Observation

The most important treatment as well as management of diabetic retinopathy is to manage a patient’s blood sugar and blood pressure. An eye exam with a specialist provides direct feedback on how the patient is doing. Several studies and clinical trials have shown that maintaining hemoglobin A1c levels below 7.0 and controlling blood pressure have shown to delay the progression of diabetic retinopathy.

Eye Injection

When diabetic retinopathy progresses to cause swelling in the central retina, it can cause blurry vision. One of the most effective ways to control this swelling is to administer medication in the eye directly through an injection. The eye is different than any other organ in the body in that medications taken by mouth or via an eyedrop do not reach the back part of the eye, where the retina is located. Therefore, a special class of medication needs to be delivered inside the eye through an injection. This medication blocks the abnormal signal produced by damage from diabetes and helps restore normal anatomy and improve vision. With advanced techniques and local anesthesia, injections may be performed painlessly and safely. Yet one of the downsides of ocular injection therapy is that its effect is temporary and needs to be repeated monthly.

Laser Treatments

Although it may not be as effective as injection therapy, laser treatment still plays a role in that it provides a safe and easy way to control the complications of diabetic retinopathy without risking infection in the eye. In addition, its therapeutic effect tends to last longer than that of ocular injection therapy.

Surgery

In its final stage, diabetic retinopathy causes uncontrolled healing responses in the eye, which in turn cause visually devastating bleeds and scar tissues that damage the retina. In order to salvage the eye, the doctor may recommend surgery, which involves removing the blood and fibrous scars inside the eye using specialized micro-surgical instruments.

Summary

As with many illnesses, it is much easier to prevent further damage than to try to repair the damage done. Therefore, it is important for patients with diabetes to seek eye exams regularly to evaluate and treat diabetic retinopathy in a timely manner.