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Risk Factors and how to prevent.
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Diabetic retinopathy refers to a condition caused due to the damage to the retina in patients with diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetes can result in persistently elevated levels of sugar in the blood, due to which the light-sensitive part of the eye called the retina is damaged.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
Most people do not have obvious symptoms while in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, which is one reason it is so vital to monitor people who are at high risk. Some symptoms become apparent as the condition progresses. These range in severity, but all require a visit to the eye doctor.
Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy
The largest risk factor for diabetic retinopathy is diabetes, but other conditions can increase your risk, as well. High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and tobacco use can increase the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, sometimes at a younger age. Additionally, not controlling your blood sugar levels can increase your risk. Other risk factors are outside of human control, such as ethnicity: people who are African-American, Native American, or Hispanic are at greater risk
When to See a Doctor About Diabetic Retinopathy
If you have any reason to suspect you may have diabetic retinopathy, it is important to see an optometrist right away. Prompt detection can mean the difference between treatment and correction or reversal and mere reactive treatments (such as if total vision loss occurs). Regular vision checkups should be part of your annual medical visit
How to Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy
Careful management of your diabetes is the best way to prevent diabetic retinopathy. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then you should have a yearly optometry exam with dilation. Pregnancy can heighten your risk, as well, so ask your doctor if you should schedule additional eye exams throughout your pregnancy..