Diabetes can progress from temporary visual impairment, including eye problems, to double vision, early cataracts and permanent vision loss. Cataracts are common in diabetics at an earlier age. However, if there are no other eye problems affecting the patient's vision, the patient can usually regain good vision after cataract surgery.
Diabetic Retinopathy and Treatment
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the retinal layer at the back of the eye is damaged in patients with diabetes. Small vessel blockages and increased vascular wall permeability lead to nutritional disorders and affect the patient's vision.
Diabetic retinopathy is usually analyzed in two stages. In the first stage, non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, retinal vessels narrow and develop bubbles called microaneurysms. This causes edema and deposits in the retina. As the disease progresses, new abnormal vessels and fibrotic membranes may form.
Symptoms and Treatment
Diabetic retinopathy may be asymptomatic in the early stages. If the damage is far from the visual center, the patient may not notice it even in advanced stages. Therefore, regular annual eye examinations are important.
Tests such as OCT and retinal angiography are performed to detect retinal damage. Treatment aims to reduce bleeding and leakage with laser therapy. Laser treatment is more effective if blood sugar levels, blood pressure and HbA1c levels are under control.
In advanced stages of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, vitrectomy surgery may be necessary if bleeding into the vitreous occurs. Its aim is to protect the eye by stopping the progression of the disease. The doctor and patient should cooperate in the fight against the disease and maintain regular follow-up and treatment.
