Bumrungrad Health Briefs #50: Diabetic Retinopathy: Early Detection and Vision Protection
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Bumrungrad Health Briefs #50: Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to vision impairment or even blindness if left untreated. Caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the blood vessels in the retina, this condition can develop silently. Knowing the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options can help prevent its progression.
What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?
When blood sugar levels remain high, blood vessels in the retina can weaken, swell, or leak fluid. In advanced stages, abnormal blood vessels may grow on the retina, leading to vision problems and potentially severe complications like retinal detachment or glaucoma.
Symptoms to Watch For
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy often has no noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, you may experience:
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Blurred or fluctuating vision
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Dark spots or “floaters”
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Impaired color vision
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Vision loss in both eyes
Since symptoms often don’t appear until the condition is advanced, regular eye exams are essential.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone with diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes—can develop diabetic retinopathy. The risk increases with:
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Poor blood sugar control
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High blood pressure and cholesterol
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Pregnancy
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Long duration of diabetes
Prevention and Management
The best prevention strategies involve controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Regular eye exams can detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy, especially in those who have had diabetes for several years. Lifestyle adjustments and proper diabetes management are key to preventing its progression.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:
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Laser Treatment: Used to seal leaking blood vessels or shrink abnormal ones.
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Injections: Anti-VEGF medications reduce swelling and slow disease progression.
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Surgery: In advanced cases, vitrectomy surgery may be necessary to remove scar tissue or blood from the retina.
Protecting Your Vision
Regular eye exams are the best defense against diabetic retinopathy. Proactive management of diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss. For advanced care, the Eye Center at Bumrungrad International Hospital offers specialized screening and treatment options, helping patients protect and preserve their vision. Always consult with an eye specialist to tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs.
This focused approach to eye care ensures you can protect your sight and enjoy a brighter future.
Provided by Dr. Maytinee Sirimaharaj https://bhx.one/Vr8p3H
Read More: https://bhx.one/YUvbRC
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