What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
A preventable cause to irreversible blindness
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a serious vision-threatening complication of diabetes. It is the second leading cause of blindness in Malaysia that might be irreversible. It affects people’s lives with diabetes. It causes progressive damage to the retina’s small vessels, which are light-sensitive layers of nerve tissue in the back of the eye.
What is the Risk Factor of Diabetic Retinopathy?
Duration of diabetes > 10 years
High blood sugar level, blood pressure, cholesterol
Smoking
Kidney failure
Anaemia
Pregnancy in diabetes
Recent Eye Surgery, Eg Cataract Surgery
How does Diabetic Retinopathy Progresses?
What are the Diabetic Retinopathy Grading?
What are the Treatment Options?
What are the Complications?
- Rubeotic Glaucoma
- Retinal Detachment
- Bleeding in Retina
- Bleeding in Vitreous
- Macula Edema
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the main cause of diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy mainly occurs when blood sugar levels are uncontrolled for a long time. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, which is the part of the eye that helps you see. These vessels can leak, swell, or stop working properly.
Q2. How long does it take for diabetic retinopathy to develop?
Diabetic retinopathy usually starts after a person has had diabetes for many years. In many cases, it may appear after 3 to 5 years. At first, it may not cause vision problems, so many people don’t notice it. Regular eye exams help detect it early.
Q3. What is the best treatment for diabetic retinopathy?
The best treatment depends on how severe the condition is. Doctors often use laser treatments to prevent damage and preserve vision. Some people may need eye injections or surgery. Early treatment gives the best results and helps save vision.
Q4. Who is at highest risk for diabetic retinopathy?
People who have had diabetes for many years are more likely to develop diabetic retinopathy. Poor blood sugar control, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol also increase the risk. Keeping diabetes under control can reduce the chance of eye damage.
Q5. What problems can diabetic retinopathy cause?
If not treated early, diabetic retinopathy can lead to serious eye problems. It can cause blurred vision, bleeding inside the eye, damage to the retina, or loss of vision. In severe cases, it can even cause blindness. Regular eye care through the Kleye Centre can help protect vision.