Diabetic Retinopathy: A Complete Guide
Schedule your eye exam today!
Who is at Risk?
Anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can develop retinopathy. Certain factors can increase your risk.
The longer you have diabetes, the greater your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Poorly controlled blood sugar speeds up damage to the retina’s blood vessels.
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Pregnancy (if diabetic)
- Smoking
What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms often develop gradually. Early stages may have no signs, making routine eye exams vitally important.
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Floaters (dark spots or strands)
- Trouble seeing colors clearly
- Difficulty in low light or nighttime
- Dark or empty areas in your vision
- Sudden loss of vision
How is it Diagnosed?
Diabetic retinopathy is detected with a comprehensive eye exam at Alden Leifer, MD and Associates.
Eye drops widen your pupils so the retina can be examined in detail.
Special cameras or scans capture detailed pictures to check for blood vessel damage or swelling.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?
Treatment focuses on slowing progression and preserving vision. The approach depends on the stage and severity.
Strict blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol control is essential for all patients.
Anti-VEGF medications may be injected into the eye to reduce swelling and stop abnormal vessel growth.
Laser is used to seal leaking blood vessels or shrink abnormal ones, lowering the risk of severe vision loss.
For advanced cases with bleeding or scar tissue, surgery removes blood and repairs damage inside the eye.
How Can I Prevent It?
Prevention starts with good diabetes control and ongoing eye care. Here’s what to do:
- Monitor blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
- Eat balanced meals and exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Don’t smoke, ask for help to quit if you need it
- Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam each year
- Report any new vision changes immediately
When Should I See a Doctor?
Annual eye exams are vital for all people with diabetes, even with no symptoms. See your doctor promptly if you notice any warning signs or changes in vision.
Detecting and treating diabetic retinopathy in its early stages greatly improves chances of preserving sight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Even those with well-managed diabetes can develop retinopathy over time. The longer you have diabetes, the higher your risk.
A yearly comprehensive dilated eye exam is recommended. If retinopathy is present, more frequent monitoring may be needed.
No, it typically does not cause pain. Vision changes, not discomfort, are the main early warning signs.
Early changes may improve with excellent diabetes and blood pressure control, but advanced damage is usually not reversible. Treatment can help prevent further deterioration.
No specific food or supplement cures diabetic retinopathy. A healthy diet supports good blood sugar control. Consult your doctor before starting any supplements.
Take Charge of Your Eye Health
Diabetic retinopathy should not threaten your independence. Expert care from Alden Leifer, MD and Associates helps you preserve your sight and quality of life. Our team serves Paterson, Hawthorne, Teaneck, Passaic, Clifton, Fair Lawn, Garfield, and all surrounding areas in Passaic, Bergen, and Essex counties. Schedule your exam today for peace of mind and family-focused care you can trust. See great till 98, and beyond!