Belmont Eye Center News,Eye News & Education

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes and a leading cause of vision loss in adults. This condition occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for processing visual images. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can progress to severe vision loss or even blindness.

How Diabetic Retinopathy Develops

Over time, uncontrolled blood sugar weakens retinal blood vessels, causing them to leak fluid or bleed. In advanced stages, the eye may respond by growing abnormal new blood vessels (a process called neovascularization). Unfortunately, these fragile vessels are prone to bleeding into the vitreous gel, leading to vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment—both of which can cause significant and sometimes permanent vision loss.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy may have no noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, patients may experience:

  • Seeing floaters (dark spots or strings) in vision

  • Blurred or fluctuating vision

  • Dark or empty areas in vision

  • Difficulty seeing at night

  • Eventual vision loss if left untreated

Because symptoms may not appear until serious damage has occurred, regular eye exams are critical for anyone with diabetes.

Treatment Options

Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on the stage and severity of the disease. Options may include:

  • Blood Sugar Control: The most important step in slowing progression. Managing blood pressure and cholesterol also helps protect eye health.

  • Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications that block abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce fluid leakage in the retina.

  • Focal/Grid Laser Therapy: Laser treatment to seal leaking blood vessels and prevent further retinal damage.

  • Vitrectomy Surgery: In advanced cases, surgery may be needed to remove vitreous hemorrhage or repair a detached retina.

Prevention and Early Detection

The best way to prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is through consistent diabetes management—including healthy diet, exercise, medication adherence, and regular monitoring. Annual comprehensive dilated eye exams are essential, as early detection and treatment dramatically reduce the risk of blindness.

Protect Your Vision with Expert Care

At Belmont Eye Center, Dr. Sandra Belmont and her team specialize in diagnosing and treating diabetic retinopathy with the latest medical and surgical options. With early intervention and proper care, it is possible to preserve vision and prevent severe complications.

If you have diabetes, schedule your annual eye exam today to safeguard your vision.