What Is Diabetic Retinopathy And How Is It Treated

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy and How Is It Treated?

When patients have diabetes, it affects various systems in their bodies, including their eyes. Diabetes can lead to several eye problems, potentially causing vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy is a critical eye disease that requires early diagnosis and prompt treatment. In the early stages, patients may not experience any symptoms.

Some patients may have mild symptoms initially, but the condition tends to worsen over time, and it can even result in blindness. Seeking treatment for diabetic retinopathy requires visiting an eye doctor. Optometric Clinic, P.A. in Hattiesburg provides eye examinations and treatments to alleviate this condition. Schedule an appointment to receive the necessary care from our optometrists.

Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to the development of this disease. It occurs when tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, become damaged. The retina plays a crucial role in vision. Damaged blood vessels can cause severe vision problems and irreversible vision loss. Although there is treatment available, it primarily focuses on slowing or halting the progression of the disease rather than restoring lost vision.

Treating Diabetes Complications

For mild to moderate cases, the most effective approach is to control diabetes. Proper diabetes management helps prevent problems with the delicate blood vessels in the retina. It is important to receive the necessary care to maintain good control over blood sugar levels. Additionally, managing high cholesterol and high blood pressure is crucial as these conditions can exacerbate the issue. In more advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy, alternative treatments can provide relief. Eye injections may be necessary to alleviate the condition, and laser treatment can also be an option.

Contact Optometric Clinic, P.A. in Hattiesburg, MS

When you require the services of an optometrist in Hattiesburg, MS, please call our office at (601) 545-2020 to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors.