Diabetes can affect the eyes and vision in a number of ways. It may lead to frequent fluctuations in vision, cataract in young age, decreased vision due to involvement of optic nerve, temporary paralysis of the muscles controlling the movement of eyes and thus double vision. The most significant complication of diabetes in eye is diabetic retinopathy and its complications.
It is test in which a series of photographs of the retina are taken with the help of a special camera. These photographs are taken after giving the patient an injection of a yellow dye. This dye reaches the retina through the blood stream and helps in seeing the blood vessels of retina more clearly. This test helps the doctor to determine which areas to be treated with laser.
Diabetic retinopathy:
The treatment of diabetic retinopathy is decided on the basis of the stage of the disease. In the very initial stages, it just requires periodic follow up to look for progression of disease. The ophthalmologist decides when to see a patient next depending upon the severity of changes in the retina.
At first, diabetic retinopathy may cause no vision loss or other symptoms. But over time, it can still harm vision.
Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy may include :
Having blurry, darkened, or cloudy vision.
Seeing floaters (dark spots) or black lines.
Later when the disease is more advanced he/she may decide to treat it with one or more of the following options:
Laser Treatment : There are well-defined criteria for laser therapy. Laser therapy is done when there is significant maculopathy, or when there are significant new blood vessels in the retina or iris.
Anti-VEGF agents (Lucentis, Avastin, Macugen) : These agents are being used in some selective cases alone or in addition to laser treatment or surgery.
Surgery : Vitrectomy surgery and other additional procedures may be required to manage the complications of diabetic retinopathy, like vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, severe macular edema, etc.
Fluorescein Angiography
Fluorescein angiography uses special photographs of the retina to reveal changes in the capillaries. Before this procedure, dye is injected into your arm or hand. The dye highlights capillaries in the retina. Photographs are taken before and after the dye is injected.
During the procedure you may briefly feel some nausea. After the procedure, your skin, eyes, and urine may appear yellow for a few hours.
What is the next step?
Your ophthalmologist will work with you to design a treatment plan that is best for you. You may need more than one type of treatment:
Laser photocoagulation, to control leaking capillaries and prevent growth of new capillaries
Vitrectomy, to remove a cloudy vitreous and scar tissue
Cryotherapy, to shrink capillaries and repair the retina
Other surgery or medications as recommended by your ophthalmologist
Diabetic patients who maintain appropriate blood sugar levels are found to have fewer eye problems than those with little or no control. Healthy eating and regular workouts contribute to the overall health of those with diabetes.
Routine eye examinations can also indicate early onset of symptoms and help manage the condition. Many problems can be treated with much greater success when caught early.
Your healthcare team will help you protect your vision. If you have questions, ask your doctors or other healthcare providers. Share your concerns with your family, friends, or clergy. For help with diabetes and vision care, call or write your state or local commission on the blind. |
