Diabetes is a progressive illness affecting millions of individuals worldwide. While its effect on blood sugar regulation may be well-known, many remain unaware of the dangers diabetes may pose to vision health. Diabetic retinopathy - a complication associated with diabetes that can cause significant vision impairment or blindness if left untreated - should be carefully considered by anyone looking to protect their eyesight from this condition. We will explore more information regarding diabetic retinopathy here in this article and also highlight steps you can take to safeguard against it in this piece.
Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy: Key Concepts and Considerations
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is an eye condition caused by elevated blood sugar levels associated with diabetes that over time damage blood vessels within the retina, leading them to leak or become blocked, eventually progressing into two main forms of diabetic Retinopathy: non-proliferative and proliferative.
Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR):
At its onset, diabetic retinopathy takes the form of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). With NPDR, weak blood vessels in the retina may leak fluids or blood, leading to swelling and potential vision issues in affected individuals. While some symptoms of NPDR may not initially present themselves, regular eye examinations - especially among people living with diabetes - is vital.
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy:
As diabetic retinopathy progresses, it may reach its proliferative stage. At this point, damaged blood vessels trigger abnormal new vessel growth which are fragile and prone to bleeding - leading to scar tissue formation if left untreated and potentially leading to severe vision loss or blindness.
Protecting Your Vision:
There are steps you can take to help safeguard against diabetic retinopathy even if you already have diabetes:
Control Your Blood Sugar Levels: Ensuring healthy blood sugar levels is critical in order to lower the risk of diabetic retinopathy and its progression.
Regular Eye Exams: For people living with diabetes, regular eye examinations are key in order to detect diabetic retinopathy early and begin treatment immediately. Early detection enables timely intervention and management.
Blood Pressure Management: Diabetes can wreak havoc on eye health. By controlling your blood pressure, it is possible to help protect it and preserve eye health.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Leading a balanced diet and regular physical activity is key to improving diabetes management and eye health.
Medication and Treatment: Your healthcare provider may suggest specific medications or treatments to manage diabetic retinopathy and slow its progression.
Quit Smoking: For smokers, quitting could have significant positive ramifications on eye health. Smoking increases diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related complications and its cessation will likely improve them.
With over 6 lakh patients successfully treated for retinal issues, Sanjeevan Netralaya’s Advanced Ayurvedic Eye Care is at the forefront in treating Diabetic Retinopathy effectively without causing any harmful side effects. Book your appointment and get tailor made treatments from Sanjeevan Netralaya for Diabetic Retinopathy at the earliest!