One of the many questions that our eye doctors in Kolkata are asked about diabetic retinopathy is whether or not the eye condition will resolve on its own. Although there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, the right treatment can delay or reduce vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy is characterised by bulging blood vessels in the retina that happens as a result of diabetes. Bulging blood vessels often leak fluid or bleed – which can cause blurred vision, seeing eye floaters and difficulty seeing colours.
At Disha Eye Hospitals, we have some of the best eye doctors in Kolkata who have shared with you a few important insights on the treatment of diabetic retinopathy:
- When is treatment needed? Treatment is required when the condition reaches an advanced stage and there’s a risk to the vision. When the condition has affected the macula of the retina or when peripheral vision has been severely affected, seeking medical treatment becomes important.
- What are the treatment options available? An eye doctor will determine the best treatment option that suits an individual. Those with advanced diabetic retinopathy will need surgical treatment to prevent vision loss. Remember, people suffering from diabetic retinopathy may need treatment more than once as the condition may get worse.
- Laser treatment: When the retina is severely damaged, laser treatment may be recommended. Using a laser, an eye surgeon will shrink the abnormal blood vessels, slowing the leakage of blood and fluid in the eye. Aggressive laser therapy may be used to treat severe proliferative retinopathy. This will prevent the growth of new blood vessels. However, laser treatment may not always work in treating proliferative retinopathy.
- Vitrectomy: In case, the retina has not been severely damaged, then a vitrectomy may be recommended. This surgery is done when there is internal bleeding or retinal detachment. This surgery is also done to treat macular edema.
- Medicines: An eye doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medicines to slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. In advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy, injections or steroids may also be given to shrink new blood vessels.
- How is diabetic retinopathy diagnosed? As diabetic retinopathy shows no early symptoms, it is essential that you get your eyes checked regularly. During a comprehensive eye examination, your eye doctor will put a few drops in your eyes to dilate the pupils. Then using a special lens, he/she will see the inside of your eyes including the condition of the blood vessels.
- Is controlling diabetes important? The most important part of your treatment plan is to keep your sugar levels under check. In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, controlling diabetes can help prevent vision problems from developing. In more advanced stages, controlling diabetes can help symptoms from worsening and this may prevent vision loss. If you have been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, it is important to keep diabetes under control.
At Disha Eye Hospitals, we offer treatment for diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma and many other eye conditions. Our highly experienced eye doctors, retina specialists and staff ensure that you receive the best possible patient care.