If you have diabetes — whether Type 1 or Type 2 — you're at risk for diabetic retinopathy, a condition where high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in your retina. It's the most common diabetic eye disease and the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults in the United States. Finding a diabetic eye specialist early is critical for preventing eye damage from diabetes.
The Four Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
Stage 1: Mild Non-Proliferative
Small areas of balloon-like swelling (microaneurysms) develop in the retina's blood vessels. At this stage, you may not notice any vision changes.
Stage 2: Moderate Non-Proliferative
As the disease progresses, some blood vessels that nourish the retina become blocked. The retina begins to receive less oxygen and nutrients.
Stage 3: Severe Non-Proliferative
Many more blood vessels are blocked, depriving areas of the retina of their blood supply. These areas send chemical signals to grow new blood vessels.
Stage 4: Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)
New blood vessels grow along the retina and into the vitreous gel. These new vessels are fragile and can leak blood, causing severe vision loss or even blindness.
When Should You Get Screened?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends:
- Type 1 diabetes: First eye exam within 5 years of diagnosis
- Type 2 diabetes: Eye exam at the time of diagnosis
- All diabetic patients: Annual dilated eye exams
- Pregnant women with diabetes: Exam in the first trimester
Treatment Options
At Elman Retina Group, we offer the full spectrum of diabetic retinopathy treatments:
- Anti-VEGF injections to reduce swelling and stop abnormal vessel growth
- Laser photocoagulation to seal leaking blood vessels
- Vitrectomy surgery for advanced cases with bleeding or scar tissue
Prevention Is Key
The best way to prevent diabetic retinopathy is to manage your diabetes effectively. Keep your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control. And never skip your annual eye exam — early detection and treatment can prevent up to 95% of diabetes-related vision loss.
To schedule a diabetic eye screening, comprehensive diabetic eye exam, or to see a diabetic retinopathy specialist, contact Elman Retina Group at 410-686-3000.
