Diabetic retinopathy is a serious condition that causes eye damage. It can lead to partial or full vision loss, but can be prevented with proper management and early detection by your eye doctor in Champaign, IL . The condition can affect anyone with diabetes.

Development of diabetic retinopathy begins with damage to the tiny blood vessels in the eye, known as microaneurysms. These may leak fluid into the retina. This fluid can then build up, and it can even damage the optic nerve. When this occurs, people with diabetic retinopathy need to see an eye specialist as soon as possible, if they haven’t already.

Surgery May be Needed

Some new blood vessels form in the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for central vision. The new blood vessels grow and leak easily, which can interfere with the normal flow of fluid out of the eye. If this happens, patients need to undergo surgery to seal these leaks.

Diabetes a Major Factor

Patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy are at high risk for loss of sight. In some cases, this condition can progress to the point where it can cause scar tissue to form on the back of the eye, which can detach the retina.

Risk Factors For Diabetic Retinopathy

Various risk factors are associated with the development of diabetic retinopathy. People with an untreated or unknown condition of diabetes are at higher risk, as are those who have certain genetic predispositions. Those who have suffered with more than 15 years of diabetes are at an even higher risk.

Diabetic retinopathy occurs in both type 1 and type 2 diabetics. Although there are different treatment options for the disease, the goal is to prevent it from causing any visual impairment. For a comprehensive eye exam in Champaign, IL, where the development of diabetic retinopathy may be detected, please contact our office today.