Diabetic Retinopathy
It is estimated that half a million Canadians have diabetic retinopathy.
Many people who have diabetes have some form of this eye condition.
Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, including blood vessels, nerves, kidneys and the heart – and people with diabetes are at a high risk of developing vision problems. Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to control the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood because it cannot produce a hormone called insulin.
Often there are no symptoms in early stages and your vision is not affected. Without treatment, diabetic retinopathy can advance to uncorrectable vision loss or even blindness, usually in both of your eyes.
With routine eye examinations, diabetic retinopathy can be detected and treated.
Risk Factors:
- Type of Diabetes (Type 1)
- High blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- Ethnicity (aboriginal Canadians are 3-5 times more likely than the general population to develop diabetes
- Smoking
Lost vision from diabetic retinopathy cannot be restored, but with early detection, treatment is often very successful and can prevent your vision from getting worse.
During the first three stages, a person’s vision is monitored carefully. In the fourth stage laser treatment and injections and surgery can be used.
Controlling your blood sugar can help reduce the risk of developing vision loss due to retinopathy. Regular follow up with your family doctor regarding control of your blood sugars. Be proactive.