Part of the eye: Retina
Diabetic retinopathy treatment
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels of the retina, often without symptoms until the damage is advanced. Regular screening finds it early, when treatment works best.
Signs to watch for
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or new floaters
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Often no symptoms at all in the early stages
How it is treated
A dilated retinal exam and scans such as OCT show how far the disease has progressed.
Treatment may include injections into the eye to reduce swelling at the macula, laser to stop abnormal vessels from growing, and vitrectomy for bleeding or scar tissue that does not clear.
Recovery and outlook
Good control of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol slows the disease. Most people with diabetes should have a retinal exam at least once a year.
Common questions
How often should I have my eyes checked if I have diabetes?
At least once a year, and more often if retinopathy has already been found or during pregnancy.
Can diabetic retinopathy be reversed?
Damage that has already happened is not always reversible, but treatment can stabilise the eye and often improves vision affected by macular swelling.
This page is general information and does not replace an eye examination. Treatment is decided after Dr. Al-Janabi has examined you.