Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy is an eye condition caused by damage to the blood vessels of the retina due to long-term high blood sugar levels. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye responsible for clear vision.

1. Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)

• Early stage of the disease
• Blood vessels in the retina become weak or leak fluid
• May not show noticeable symptoms initially

2. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

• Advanced stage
• Abnormal new blood vessels grow in the retina
• Higher risk of bleeding and vision loss

In the early stages, symptoms may not be noticeable. As the condition progresses, you may experience:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Dark spots or floaters in vision
• Poor night vision
• Sudden vision loss in severe cases
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
• Colors appearing dull or faded

Diabetic Retinopathy mainly occurs due to long-term uncontrolled diabetes. Other risk factors include:

• Poor blood sugar control
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Long duration of diabetes
• Pregnancy in diabetic women
• Smoking and unhealthy lifestyle

1. Detailed Eye Examination

We perform a complete retinal evaluation using advanced diagnostic tools such as:

• Fundus examination
• OCT scan (Optical Coherence Tomography)
• Fluorescein angiography (if required)
• Vision and pressure testing

This helps in identifying the stage and severity of the disease.

2. Laser Treatment (Photocoagulation)

Laser therapy helps:

• Seal leaking blood vessels
• Reduce swelling in the retina
• Prevent further vision damage

It is a safe and widely used treatment for diabetic retinopathy.

3. Anti-VEGF Injections

In advanced cases:

• Medicines are injected into the eye
• Helps reduce abnormal blood vessel growth
• Improves vision stability

4. Vitrectomy Surgery

For severe cases with bleeding or retinal detachment:

• Surgical removal of vitreous gel and blood
• Restores retinal function
• Improves chances of vision recovery