Diabetic Retinopathy: How to Protect Your Vision.

Diabetic Retinopathy is a potentially serious eye condition that can affect individuals with Diabetes Mellitus. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, it is absolutely essential to not only understand what diabetic retinopathy is and who it affects, but to also understand the underlying causes of this condition. This knowledge will help you to take proactive steps necessary to 1) identify the early signs of diabetic retinopathy as soon as possible; and 2) appropriately manage this vision-threatening condition in partnership with your Bay Eye Center optometrists and healthcare provider.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a progressive eye disease that damages the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. The retina is crucial for converting light into visual signals that your brain interprets as images. When the blood vessels within the retina are damaged, it can lead to vision impairment and, in severe cases, blindness.

Who Does Diabetic Retinopathy Affect?

Diabetic retinopathy primarily affects individuals who have diabetes, whether it's type 1 or type 2. It is essential for people with diabetes to understand the potential risks and symptoms associated with this condition.

Etiology of Diabetic Retinopathy.

Diabetic retinopathy is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels. These elevated sugar levels damage the blood vessels that nourish the retina. There are 2 main stages of diabetic retinopathy:

1. Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR). In this early stage, the blood vessels in the retina weaken and begin to leak fluids and fats. This leakage can cause swelling of the macula, which is the central area of the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
2. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR). In this advanced stage, the blood vessels become so damaged that the body attempts to compensate by growing new, abnormal blood vessels. However, these new vessels are fragile and can lead to bleeding inside the eye, resulting in severe vision problems and potentially blindness.

Epidemiology of Diabetic Retinopathy.

Understanding the prevalence and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy is crucial for early detection and intervention. Here are some key epidemiological insights:

• Prevalence: Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults in the United States. According to the National Eye Institute, approximately 7.7 million people aged 40 and older in the U.S. have diabetic retinopathy.
• Duration of Diabetes: The longer an individual has diabetes, the higher the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. After 20 years of diabetes, nearly all individuals with type 1 diabetes and more than 60% of individuals with type 2 diabetes will have some degree of diabetic retinopathy.
• Blood Sugar Control: Effective management of blood sugar levels is a key factor in reducing the risk and progression of diabetic retinopathy. According to the American Diabetes Association, around 28.5% of Americans with diabetes aged 40 and older have diabetic retinopathy, and nearly 4.4% of them have vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy.
• Impact on Quality of Life: Diabetic retinopathy not only affects an individual's physical health but also has a significant impact on their quality of life. Vision impairment can limit one's ability to perform daily activities and enjoy a good quality of life.

Early Detection is Key!

Early detection through comprehensive eye exams is paramount in identifying and addressing diabetic retinopathy. If you or a loved one has diabetes, remember that maintaining good control of your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, in addition to a healthy lifestyle, can significantly reduce your risk of diabetic retinopathy and its vision-threatening effects. Routine evaluations with your healthcare team and optometrists are essential for protecting your vision and ensuring a bright, healthy future. If you have diabetes, remember to contact Bay Eye Center today to schedule your eye exam and diabetic retinopathy screening evaluation so we can work together to maintain good eye health and protect your vision!