Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye conditions that can affect people with diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. Let’s explore diabetic retinopathy and how it affects the eyes.
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition caused by high blood sugar. It damages the blood vessels in the retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye that helps you see clearly. Over time, these vessels can leak, swell, or close off, leading to vision problems. It's one of the most common complications of diabetes.
In India, around 17% of people with diabetes under 50 are affected by diabetic retinopathy. The risk increases with age and poor blood sugar control. Early stages may have no symptoms, making regular eye checkups essential.
Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on its stage—early stages may only require blood sugar control, while advanced stages need more intensive treatments. Options include laser therapy, injections, or surgery to manage vision loss and prevent further damage.
