Diabetes and the Eye

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is the primary cause of vision loss in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

This progressive eye disease causes the blood vessels that supply your retina to become damaged,

leaking blood and other deposits. In turn, this leaked fluid can cause retinal swelling, leading to vision problems and even blindness if left untreated.

In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy often has no noticeable symptoms. If you have diabetes, you should have an eye examination every year to undergo a dilated eye evalutation. Call us today at (940) 937-2015 to schedule a diabetic eye examination.

Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy

Your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy goes up the longer you have had diabetes (type 1 or type 2), and the less you control your blood sugar levels.

You may also be at an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy if you:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have high blood pressure
  • Use tobacco
  • Have high cholesterol

Careful management of diabetes is important in order to minimize your risk of diabetic retinopathy.

Problems Caused by Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy can cause several serious vision complications, including:

  • Glaucoma – The growth of new blood vessels during diabetic retinopathy can interfere with normal eye drainage, increasing your intraocular pressure.
  • Retinal detachment – Abnormal blood vessels can result in scar tissue that pulls your retina away from the back of your eye, heightening your risk of retinal detachment.
  • Vitreous hemorrhage – If blood vessels leak into the vitreous humor (the clear gel that fills the internal cavity of your eye), it can interfere with your vision.
  • If you have diabetes, Dr. Bishop or Dr. Young can help you protect your eyes against the consequences of diabetic retinopathy and other related eye diseases.

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  • "Family Eye Care is the best at what they do and makes you feel right at home."
    John D. Childress, TX

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