One of the most serious vision-related complications is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that often develops without noticeable symptoms until it’s advanced. Fortunately, regular eye exams can help catch this disease early, when it’s most treatable. Understanding how diabetes affects your eyes and the importance of early detection can make all the difference in protecting your long-term vision.
Diabetes can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes. When blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, they can weaken the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This damage can lead to leakage, swelling, and even the growth of abnormal blood vessels, compromising your ability to see clearly.
Diabetic retinopathy is a progressive eye disease caused by damage to the retinal blood vessels due to diabetes. In its early stages, you may not notice any symptoms. However, as the disease advances, it can lead to blurred vision, dark spots, floaters, and eventually, blindness. Diabetic retinopathy typically develops in stages, from mild nonproliferative retinopathy to more severe forms that may require advanced treatment.
One of the most dangerous aspects of diabetic retinopathy is how quietly it can develop. Regular diabetic eye exams are the only way to detect early changes before symptoms appear. Early detection allows for timely treatment, significantly reducing the risk of vision loss.
If you have diabetes, your eye health can change from year to year. Routine exams enable your optometrist to track any progression of diabetic eye disease and make informed decisions about your care.
When detected early, diabetic retinopathy can be managed with treatments like laser therapy, injections, or lifestyle changes. Delaying care could mean fewer options and poorer outcomes. Routine eye exams give you and your eye care team the opportunity to act before the condition worsens.
Vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is often preventable with early detection and proper care. Regular diabetic eye exams are one of the most effective ways to protect your vision and catch problems before they become more serious.
Schedule your diabetic eye exam with Dr. Richard E. Hults & Associates and take a proactive step toward protecting your sight. Visit any of our offices in Elyria, Akron, Fairview Park, or Canton, Ohio. Please Call (440) 687-6055, (330) 252-7457, (440) 755-2857, (330) 252-7616 to book an appointment today.