Critical for All Diabetics:
Annual eye exams can prevent 95% of diabetes-related vision loss. Early detection saves sight.
Diabetic Retinopathy Explained
Understanding the condition (5:30)
Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy
Learn about this serious diabetes complication and why early detection is critical
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes complication that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. High blood sugar levels damage these tiny blood vessels, causing them to leak fluid or bleed, which distorts your vision.
It's the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. However, with proper diabetes management and regular eye screenings, most vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented.
Critical Facts:
- All people with diabetes are at risk regardless of type
- Early stages have no symptoms - damage occurs silently
- 95% of severe vision loss is preventable with early treatment
Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
Mild Non-Proliferative
Earliest stage with microaneurysms - small balloon-like swellings in retinal blood vessels
Symptoms:
- Usually no symptoms
- May have normal vision
- Only detectable via dilated exam
Moderate Non-Proliferative
Blood vessels show signs of damage, blockage begins to occur in the retina
Symptoms:
- Slight vision blurriness
- Occasional floaters
- Minor reading difficulties
Severe Non-Proliferative
Many blood vessels are blocked, depriving retina of blood supply
Symptoms:
- Noticeable vision changes
- Dark spots or floaters
- Difficulty seeing details
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Advanced stage where new abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina surface
Symptoms:
- Severe vision loss
- Blank spots in vision
- Bleeding in the eye
Assess Your Risk Level
Take our quick assessment to understand your diabetic retinopathy risk
How long have you had diabetes?
Advanced Treatment Options
Comprehensive care to prevent vision loss and preserve your sight
Anti-VEGF Injections
Medications injected into the eye to reduce swelling and slow vision loss
Benefits:
- Reduces macular edema
- Prevents new blood vessel growth
- Improves vision in many cases
Treatment Frequency: Monthly or as needed
Laser Photocoagulation
Precise laser treatment to seal leaking blood vessels and prevent new growth
Benefits:
- Prevents vision loss
- Reduces swelling
- Stops bleeding
Treatment Frequency: One or more sessions
Vitrectomy Surgery
Surgical removal of vitreous gel and blood from the center of the eye
Benefits:
- Clears blood from eye
- Repairs retinal detachment
- Restores vision
Treatment Frequency: One-time procedure
Blood Sugar Management
Essential foundation for all diabetic retinopathy treatment and prevention
Benefits:
- Slows progression
- Prevents complications
- Essential for treatment success
Treatment Frequency: Daily monitoring
Patient Success Stories
Hear from diabetic patients who saved their vision with early treatment
Ramesh Patel
Diabetic for 15 years, Age 58
"The anti-VEGF injections saved my vision. I was terrified I'd go blind, but now I can see clearly!"
Meena Krishnan
Type 2 Diabetic, Age 62
"Early detection through screening saved my sight. I had no symptoms, but the doctor found it early."
Suresh Kumar
Retired Engineer, Age 65
"The vitrectomy surgery was life-changing. I got my independence back and can read again!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about diabetic retinopathy
Protect Your Vision from Diabetes
Don't wait until you notice symptoms. Schedule your diabetic eye screening today and prevent irreversible vision loss.