Retina - Complete Medical and Surgical Retina Services available

DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
Diabetic Retinopathy is the leading cause of loss of vision in diabetic patients.
WHAT IS DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
It is the change in the retina of diabetic patients.

Blood vessels become weak and leaky
Results in small bleeds and Oedema with exudates deposition
Bleeding into the eye cavity
RETINAL DETACHMENT

PREDISPOSING FACTORS FOR DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

  • Young, insulin dependent diabetics
  • Poorly controlled diabetics
  • Pregnant diabetics (gestational diabetes)
  • Long duration of diabetes
 

Risk increases with increase in the duration of diabetes.

  • Can remain asymptomatic for many years
  • Commons symptoms are blurring of vision, floaters and sudden loss of vision
  • Advanced D.R. can lead to secondary glaucoma, haemorrhages and detachment of retina, causing loss of vision.
 

HOW OFTEN SHOULD A DIABETIC PATIENTS HAVE EYE CHECKUPS

  • Once diabetes has been diagnosed, checkups are recommended at a regular interval.
  • Patient should be referred to an Ophthalmologist immediately.
 

INVESTIGATIONS PERFORMED FOR A DIABETIC PATIENT

  • Regular vision checkup
  • Regular retina examination performed after pupil dilatation.
  • Investigations – Taking a series of photographs of the retina.
 

MODALITIES OF TREATMENT AVAILABLE FOR DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

  • Laser photocoagulation, Intravitreal Injections,
  • Surgery in advanced stage
 

ROLE OF LASER

  • Laser treatment is done to prevent further loss of vision and preserve outpatient procedure. There are no restrictions after the procedure.
 

ROLE OF DIABETICS IN THE PREVENTION OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

  • Keep Sugar and lipid level under good control
  • Get periodic eye checkups done
  • Take prompt treatments as advised by the ophthalmologists