People with diabetes can develop an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. The condition causes leakage and swelling in the blood vessels of the retina. As it progresses, the vision begins to become distorted and may gradually result in complete blindness.
According to the statistics, one-third of the people suffering from diabetes develop diabetic retinopathy.
Indications of Diabetic Retinopathy
There are no visible symptoms to indicate diabetic retinopathy when it’s in its early stages. But as it progresses and becomes more severe, the vision starts getting affected. It becomes blurred. Patches or colourless spots begin to obstruct vision for fleeting moments. A person with diabetic retinopathy may also have trouble seeing at night. Sometimes a person loses their complete vision before the condition is detected.
Types of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic eye disease progresses in two stages. Based on its symptoms and development it can be classified into two types. The first type is known as non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). It is the initial stage. The second type of diabetic retinopathy is proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). It is a more advanced stage.
Who is more likely to develop Diabetic Eye Disease?
There are more chances of developing diabetic retinopathy if cholesterol and blood pressure levels are also high in people already suffering from diabetes. Pregnant women and people who smoke regularly are also more likely to suufer the disease even if they do not have a diabetic condition.
Diabetic Retinopathy can cause other problems
Two other severe eye conditions caused by diabetic retinopathy are-
Macular Edema- In the condition, the macula swells as a result of the leakage in the retina. It causes blurry vision.
Neo-vascular Glaucoma- In the condition, abnormal blood vessels develop from the retina and block fluid from clearing out of the eyes. It causes vision loss.
Can Diabetic Retinopathy be prevented?
Diabetic eye disease is inevitable in the majority of people suffering from diabetes. Still, they can delay its onset if they inculcate healthy changes in their lifestyle.
- Keep a check on cholesterol and high blood pressure levels
- Intake well-balanced and nutritional diet
- Include exercise as a part of daily routine to keep weight under control
- Quit smoking and do not consume alcohol
- Regularly visit an ophthalmologist and undergo recommended eye-exams
Diabetic retinopathy is incurable. Therefore, taking thorough care of your eye health is a must. Book an appointment for a complete vision screening test in Jamaica at Courts Optical eye care center near you.
Courts Optical Jamaica 
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