Diabetic retinopathy is a condition caused by diabetes that affects the retina, the layer at the back of your eye that allows you to see. There are two main types of diabetic retinopathy: nonproliferative and proliferative. Both are treated at Brinegar Eye Care in Bloomington, IN.
Types of Retinopathy
Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy generally develops before proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In this type of diabetic retinopathy, small blood vessels in the retina become damaged. These damaged blood vessels may leak fluid into the surrounding tissue, eventually leading to swelling or scarring in the retina. Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy is sometimes called background retinal changes because it doesn't cause any symptoms. However, these changes can ultimately result in vision loss if left untreated.
If left untreated, nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy can progress to proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In this more severe form of diabetes retinopathy, new blood vessels begin to grow on the retina's surface. These new blood vessels are fragile and can bleed into the center of your eye, blocking vision and causing blindness. See your optometrist immediately if you think you might have diabetes or if you start noticing any symptoms that could be caused by diabetic retinopathy so they can help prevent these types of serious complications from developing.
Diabetic Eye Exam
Diabetic eye exams are essential for maintaining good vision and preventing diabetic eye disease. It is recommended that everyone with diabetes have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year, more often if you have any signs of diabetic retinopathy. During the eye exam, your optometrist will dilate your pupils so that the back of your eyes can be thoroughly examined for any signs of diabetic retinopathy. This allows them to see any changes to the blood vessels in the retina or other abnormalities that may indicate a problem.
Your doctor will also look out for other common complications associated with diabetes, such as cataracts and glaucoma. Cataracts are caused by protein buildup on the lenses of your eyes, which can blur vision and cause glare. Glaucoma occurs when fluid builds up in the front part of the eye due to increased pressure, which can damage nerve cells in the retina and lead to vision loss.
Quality Eye Care in Bloomington
Having regular diabetic eye care exams is an important part of managing diabetes and preserving good vision over time. Your eye doctor at Brinegar Eye Care in Bloomington, IN can detect signs of diabetic retinopathy early so that treatment can start right away, which may help slow down the progression and avoid blindness or permanent vision loss in some cases. If you have diabetes, make sure you get regular eye exams so you can keep an eye on your vision health. Call us today at (812) 339-7995.