What Is Diabetic Retinopathy? Early Signs You Should Never Ignore

Diabetes can affect more than just your blood sugar - it can also impact your vision. One of the most serious complications is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that damages the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye). Left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss and even blindness. The good news is that with early detection and treatment, the risk of severe vision problems can be greatly reduced.
 

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy develops when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. These blood vessels may swell, leak, or close off completely. In advanced cases, abnormal new blood vessels can grow on the retina, further threatening vision.

There are two main stages:

• Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR): The early stage where small blood vessels weaken and leak fluid or blood into the retina.

• Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): The more advanced stage where new, fragile blood vessels grow, which can bleed and cause scar tissue that pulls on the retina.
 

Early Signs You Should Never Ignore

One of the challenges with diabetic retinopathy is that symptoms often don’t appear until the disease has progressed. However, there are early warning signs to watch for:

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Dark spots or floaters in your vision

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Colors appearing faded or washed out

• Sudden vision loss

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your eye doctor right away.
 

Why Regular Diabetic Eye Exams Are Crucial

Even if you don’t notice vision changes, diabetic retinopathy can still be developing silently. That’s why annual comprehensive eye exams are critical for anyone with diabetes. During the exam, your optometrist will dilate your pupils and use advanced imaging technology to check for early signs of damage in the retina.

Detecting diabetic retinopathy early allows for effective treatment options such as laser therapy, injections, or surgery that can prevent further vision loss. Regular monitoring also helps your doctor track any changes over time, ensuring you get the right care at the right moment.
 

Protecting Your Vision with Lifestyle Choices

In addition to regular eye exams, managing your overall health plays a big role in protecting your sight:

• Keep your blood sugar levels under control

• Monitor and manage blood pressure and cholesterol

• Follow a healthy diet and stay active

• Avoid smoking, which increases the risk of eye disease
 

Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam Today

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults, but it doesn’t have to threaten your sight. By paying attention to early warning signs, maintaining your overall health, and scheduling routine diabetic eye exams, you can take control of your eye health and protect your vision for years to come.

Contact Pflugerville Vision Care to schedule your diabetic eye exam and safeguard your vision from diabetic retinopathy. Visit our office n Pflugerville, Texas, or call (512) 251-4099 to book an appointment today.