If you are a diabetic, you will suffer from many symptoms. One symptom that could affect you is Diabetic Retinopathy. This condition of the eyes has been contributed directly to diabetes. As a diabetic, you have a greater chance of developing eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts. Diabetic Retinopathy typically develops after a patient has been suffering from diabetes for twenty or more years. As with many other areas of the body, diabetes, as time goes by, begins to have a direct affect on the retina’s circulatory system.

In this first stage of the condition, it results in a decrease in vision and retina swelling. The condition continues to progress over the years to second stage referred to as proliferate retinopathy. This is a result of the retina becoming deprived of oxygen due to circulatory problems. The patient’s vision continues to decrease as the retinopathy progresses onto the later disease phases. In fact, in some cases the presence of abnormal scar tissue and vessel growth could cause issues such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, and eventual complete blindness.

There are various symptoms of diabetic retinopathy that depends on many different aspects such as age of the patience, stage of diabetes, and progress of the disease. In some diabetics, when levels of blood sugar are abnormal, they may often experience blurred vision. Diabetics may also experience flashes, floaters, or even vision loss in a sudden fashion. It is for all of these reasons that patients with diabetes should seek regular eye testing and examinations by a professional.

With regular tests, any evidence of the disease can be promptly identified and treatment can be started right away. For proper diagnosis, you will need to be referred to an ophthalmologist, who will perform a retina examination using a specific instrument called an ophthalmoscope.

There are several different treatment options available for patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. The treatment option recommended by your ophthalmologist will depend on factors such as the progress of the disease and problems you are experiencing. Some treatments include laser surgery and vitrectomy. The best way to prevent Diabetic Retinopathy is to keep complete control over the levels of blood sugar in the body. With exercise, diet, and control, you have a higher chance of reducing your risks.