November: Diabetes Awareness Month — Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. One of the severe complications of diabetes that optometrists worry about is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that affects the eyes. In this blog, we will explore diabetic retinopathy, how to spot it early, why early detection is crucial, and the available treatments. If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, it's essential to stay informed and proactive about protecting your sight. To take that crucial step, we encourage you to book an appointment at McPeak Optometry, to get your eyes checked.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a potentially sight-threatening condition that affects the eyes of individuals with diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, these damaged blood vessels can lead to vision problems and, if left untreated, even severe vision loss.

How to Spot Diabetic Retinopathy and Why Early Detection is Important

• Regular Eye Exams: The key to detecting diabetic retinopathy early is through regular eye exams. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing this condition, making routine eye check-ups crucial. Early detection allows for timely intervention and better outcomes.
• Vision Changes: Pay close attention to any changes in your vision. If you experience blurry or distorted vision, see dark spots, or have difficulty reading or recognizing faces, it may be a sign of diabetic retinopathy.
• Annual Screening: Diabetes patients should have an annual comprehensive dilated eye exam. This exam can help your eye specialist identify diabetic retinopathy in its early stages, often before you notice any symptoms.

Why is early detection important? Diabetic retinopathy can advance slowly, making it difficult to notice changes in your vision until the condition is already in a severe stage. This makes early detection crucial. When detected early, treatments are more effective at preventing vision loss.

Effective Treatments for Diabetic Retinopathy

• Laser Therapy: In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, laser therapy can seal leaking blood vessels and reduce the risk of vision loss.
• Anti-VEGF Injections: Anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) injections can slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. This treatment is especially effective in the later stages of the disease.
• Vitrectomy: In more advanced cases, a surgical procedure called vitrectomy may be necessary to remove blood and scar tissue from the eye's vitreous gel.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and we hope we’ve emphasized the importance of understanding diabetic retinopathy and the significance of early detection. If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, remember to schedule your annual eye exam. Early detection and proactive management can help preserve your vision and overall quality of life.

We encourage you to take a proactive step for your eye health by booking an appointment at McPeak Optometry, located in Falls City. Regular check-ups can make a difference in managing your diabetes and protecting your vision. Don't wait; book your appointment today!