BLOGS

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy Disease ?

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye problem caused by high blood sugar damaging small blood vessels in the retina. These vessels can swell, leak, or close, harming vision. Over time, new weak vessels may grow and bleed inside the eye, causing vision issues. Often, early stages have no symptoms, so regular eye check-ups are important to catch it early and protect your sight.

Stages of the Diabetic Retinopathy Disease

• Mild Non-Proliferative – tiny swellings in the vessels
• Moderate – some vessels become blocked
• Severe – widespread blockages starve the retina
• Proliferative – new abnormal vessels grow and bleed

People with diabetes for over 5–10 years are at higher risk.

Common Diabetic Retinopathy Symptoms

• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Floaters or dark spots
• Poor night vision
• Sudden vision loss in advanced cases

How It’s Diagnosed

Your ophthalmologist begins with a dilated eye examination to look directly at the retina. If swelling or bleeding is suspected, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provides cross-section images that reveal fluid build-up, while fluorescein angiography tracks dye through the retinal vessels to pinpoint leaks and blockages. Together, these tests show how far the disease has progressed and guide the choice of treatment.

Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy

The severity of the condition determines management. Strict management of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar may be sufficient in the early stages. Anti-VEGF injections inside the eye reduce swelling and shrink aberrant vessels, while laser photocoagulation plugs the weak spots when leakage or new vessel growth endangers vision. In the most severe situations, where there is scar tissue or ongoing bleeding, a vitrectomy clears the line of sight by removing the hazy gel. The likelihood of maintaining vision is significantly increased by prompt therapy.

Expert Retina Care in Pune

At Dudhbhate Netralay, experienced retina specialists use the latest diagnostic tools and treatments to manage diabetic retinopathy. Early detection is the key—book your annual eye check-up today and protect your vision for the future.