Diabetic retinopathy is a severe eye condition that can lead to vision loss. Many people suffer from pre-diabetes and diabetes, making this condition increasingly common. At Optometric Images in the Dublin and Tri-Valley Area, we provide treatment for diabetic retinopathy.

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Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy

Damage to the blood vessels of the retina causes this condition. Increased blood sugar weakens the retinas and there is a risk even with controlled blood sugar. There is a heightened risk of developing the condition if you have had diabetes for a long time, are Black or Hispanic, have other pre-existing conditions, or are pregnant. Keeping a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage the condition.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

Common symptoms of the disease include blurry vision, poor vision at night, spots or floaters, and vision fluctuations. You should contact an optometrist on our team immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. It is important to have a dilated exam yearly if you have diabetes. We can look for signs of diabetic retinopathy, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. Many eye conditions present little or no symptoms at the onset, so it is essential to be proactive.

Treating Diabetic Retinopathy

Treatment depends on the severity of your case and a few other factors. Minor damage to the blood vessels is usually treated through regular checkups, diet, and exercise. Early detection is essential to prevent the condition from worsening.

More advanced cases may require laser procedures. The laser seals leaking blood vessels and prevents further tissue damage. Some cases may require an intraocular surgery called a vitrectomy. This process removes the vitreous and replaces it with a saline liquid to stabilize the pressure in the eyes.

Treatment for diabetic retinopathy is usually done in several steps since there is no quick fix. However, these methods are necessary to protect your vision from becoming worse.

Contact Optometric Images in the Dublin and Tri-Valley Area

There are a few treatment options for patients experiencing diabetic retinopathy. Fortunately, the condition can be managed and treated with early detection. At Optometric Images, we provide highly effective treatment options for our patients with diabetic retinopathy. If you have concerns about diabetic retinopathy or it has been a while since your last eye exam, call our team today at (925) 479-0400 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.