
Diabetic Retinopathy
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak, swell, or become blocked.
As the condition progresses to Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), new abnormal blood vessels may grow on the surface of the retina, leading to further complications.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, there may be no noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark or empty areas in your vision
- Vision loss
- Difficulty seeing colours
- Floaters (dark strings or spots floating in your vision)
It is important to note that diabetic retinopathy can develop without any apparent symptoms, which is why regular comprehensive eye examinations are crucial for people with diabetes.

What are the Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy?
Uncontrolled high blood sugar levels are the primary cause of diabetic retinopathy, which can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina over time.
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition include the duration of diabetes, poor blood sugar control, high blood pressure and cholesterol, pregnancy, and smoking.
Consistently high blood sugar levels can accelerate the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy, while high blood pressure and cholesterol can further damage the retinal blood vessels.
Pregnancy can sometimes worsen the condition, and smoking increases the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related eye complications.
BOOK APPOINTMENTManagement and Treatment Options
At The Sight Centre, we offer various management and treatment options for diabetic retinopathy tailored to the specific needs and stage of the condition.

Intravitreal Injections
Medications administered directly into the vitreous cavity of the eye to treat various retinal conditions.
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Vitrectomy Surgery
A vitrectomy removes the blood and scar tissue and repairs retinal detachment.
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Condition Management
Access consultant-level guidance and support for managing eye conditions.
LEARN MOREDiabetic Retinopathy Treatment at The Sight Centre
If you have diabetes, it is crucial to have regular comprehensive eye examinations at The Sight Centre to detect and manage diabetic retinopathy.