retina of the eye

The retina of a healthy eye.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes is a vascular disease that results from the body not producing enough insulin or not using it properly. The eye has a tremendous number of blood vessels that feed its metabolism and remove waste products. As a result, and because vascular disease can have a detrimental effect on the eyes, diabetes can cause blood or protein to leak out of the vessels to cause swelling in the retina.

Also, if the blood vessels are so compromised that they cannot deliver oxygen to the retina effectively, new blood vessels can form which can lead to severe hemorrhaging, retinal detachment, and irreversible vision loss. The only way to effectively evaluate the eye of a diabetic is through a dilated pupil. Early signs of diabetic retinopathy often do not present with any visual symptoms; so preventative examination is important. If we find changes in the eye, digital photos are taken and we communicate with the patient’s primary care physician or endocrinologist to make sure that the diabetes is perfectly under control. If the diabetes is affecting the eyes, then it may be affecting the kidneys or other organs as well; so, coordinating care is essential. If you have any other questions about diabetes and the eye, please feel free to give us a call.