How is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?

How is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that can affect individuals with diabetes, leading to vision problems and potentially blindness if left untreated. At Coers Family Eyecare, PC, we prioritize early detection and effective treatment to manage this condition and preserve your vision. Understanding how diabetic retinopathy is treated can help you take proactive steps in maintaining your eye health.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, this damage can cause blood vessels to swell, leak, or close off, disrupting normal vision. If not managed, diabetic retinopathy can lead to severe vision impairment or even blindness.

Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on the severity of the condition and how much damage has occurred. Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options that can slow the progression of the disease and protect your vision.

Managing Diabetes

The foundation of treating diabetic retinopathy is controlling your diabetes. Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in check is essential for preventing further damage to the blood vessels in your eyes. Regular monitoring and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with diet, exercise, and prescribed medications can significantly reduce the risk of retinopathy worsening.

Anti-VEGF Injections

For more advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy, particularly proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) or diabetic macular edema (DME), anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections may be recommended. These medications reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina and can help reduce swelling in the retina, improving vision and preventing further damage.

Laser Treatment (Photocoagulation)

Laser treatment, also known as focal or scatter photocoagulation, is a common method for treating diabetic retinopathy. This procedure uses laser energy to seal off or shrink abnormal blood vessels, preventing them from leaking and causing further damage to the retina. It’s often used when blood vessels are at risk of leaking or have already started to leak.

Vitrectomy

In severe cases, particularly when there is significant bleeding in the eye (vitreous hemorrhage) or retinal detachment, a vitrectomy may be necessary. This surgical procedure involves removing the gel-like fluid (vitreous) in the center of the eye and replacing it with a saline solution. During this procedure, any blood or scar tissue in the retina can be removed, helping to restore vision and prevent further complications.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroids may also be used to treat diabetic macular edema. These medications help reduce inflammation and swelling in the retina. They are sometimes used in combination with other treatments like anti-VEGF injections or laser therapy to achieve the best results.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial

The best way to manage diabetic retinopathy is through early detection. At Coers Family Eyecare, PC, we recommend that individuals with diabetes schedule regular comprehensive eye exams, even if their vision seems fine. Early detection of diabetic retinopathy can lead to timely treatment and help prevent vision loss.

Get in Touch with Coers Family Eyecare

While diabetic retinopathy is a serious condition, it can be effectively managed with the right care and treatment. Whether through lifestyle adjustments, injections, laser treatments, or surgery, there are ways to protect your vision and improve your quality of life. At Coers Family Eyecare, PC, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for our patients with diabetic retinopathy, helping you preserve your vision and live a healthier life.

If you’re living with diabetes, schedule an appointment with Coers Family Eyecare for a thorough eye exam. Early intervention is key to maintaining your vision and managing diabetic retinopathy. Contact our office in Columbus, Indiana, by calling (812) 408-8400 today.