What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a complication of Diabetes Mellitus that left undetected and treated can lead to severe and catastrophic vision loss. All patients with diabetes should have regular eye exams and diagnostic testing in order to detect changes in the small blood vessels of the retina that may indicate the need for treatment-even if there is no vision loss! Damage to the small blood vessels in the retina that causes diabetic retinopathy is the most frequent cause of new blindness among adults aged 20-74 years old. However, with regular eye exams, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, vision loss can be prevented or halted in most instances. The retina specialists at Eye Associates perform in-office diabetic eye exams, diagnostic testing, and treatment including non-surgical retina injection treatment with Lucentis®, Eylea® or other medications, laser treatment and surgery such as vitrectomy if needed to help maintain your vision and prevent vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, as well work with your primary care physician to be certain you have access to care you might need.
Treating Diabetic Retinopathy