Diabetic Meal

Either you suffer from diabetes type 1 or diabetes type 2, both are at risk. That is the reason why everyone with diabetes must undergo eyes checking at least once a year. In the US only around 40% – 50% people are diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy every year.

Women with diabetic may experience harder time with diabetic retinopathy during their pregnancy. Pregnant women should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam as soon as they are confirmed pregnant. Early check up can help your doctor to recommend further follow up at the later stage of your pregnancy.

How does diabetic retinopathy cause vision loss?

Blood vessels damaged from diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss in two ways:

1. Due to fragile and abnormality of blood vessels, some blood leak can happen. The blood will enter the center of the eyes and cause vision to be blurred. If this happens, it is the fourth stage of diabetic retinopathy and known as proliferative retinopathy.

2. Besides blood, fluids can also leak and enter the center of macula. This is where sharp and straight vision occurs. The presence of the fluids forces the macula to swell and again cause blurred vision. The specific name given to this type of retinopathy is macular edema. Macular edema can occur at any stage of diabetic retinopathy. And mostly people with proliferative retinopathy also have macular edema.

Does diabetic retinopathy have any symptoms?

Unfortunately, there is no early sign of diabetic retinopathy. The tips here is that the moment you are diagnosed with diabetic, you should immediately go for a comprehensive dilated eye exam.

What are the symptoms of proliferative retinopathy if bleeding occurs?

At the early stage you will notice few specks of blood or spots blocking your vision. If you notice this, you should go to see your doctor as precaution. Sometimes it can be other things. But if it is confirmed usually the doctor will recommend you go to for further treatment before it becomes serious.

Be careful though, sometimes the symptom might be gone for a while. You will get back your clear vision but soon it will come back again. Never wait until it is too late. The moment you notice the first sign, go and see your doctor. Early treatment can save your eyes. Late treatment can cause severe vision loss or even can cause blindness.

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