Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide. While most people are aware of its impact on the heart, kidneys, and nerves, few realize how severely it can affect the eyes — especially the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.
In this post, Dr. Nikhil Pal (“our Retina Specialist”) explains how diabetes damages retinal blood vessels, what symptoms to watch for, and what treatments are available to prevent vision loss.
How Often Should Diabetic Patients Get Their Eyes Checked?
Eye screening is crucial for anyone diagnosed with diabetes. Here’s what Dr. Nikhil Pal recommends:
| Condition | Recommended Eye Check-up Frequency | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Newly Diagnosed Diabetes | Immediately after diagnosis | To detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy |
| Controlled Diabetes (Normal HbA1c) | Once a year | Regular monitoring to ensure no new changes |
| Uncontrolled Diabetes (High HbA1c) | Every 6 months | Higher risk of developing eye complications |
| Diagnosed Retinopathy | As advised by doctor (3–6 months) | Requires close follow-up and treatment |
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina — the part of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. High blood sugar levels can cause these tiny vessels to leak or block, leading to vision problems or even permanent blindness.
When blood vessels in the retina get blocked, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to that area is reduced, damaging the retinal cells responsible for vision. Over time, this can cause bleeding, swelling, floaters, and in severe cases, retinal detachment.
Treatment Options for Diabetic Retinopathy
The treatment depends on the stage and severity of the disease.
1. Early Stage
- Strict blood sugar control
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and kidney health
- Regular follow-up every 4–6 months
2. Moderate Stage
- Specialized diagnostic tests like Fluorescein Angiography and OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
- Treatment may include laser therapy or intravitreal injections (simple OPD procedure)
3. Advanced Stage
- Vitrectomy Surgery – when there is persistent bleeding or retinal detachment
This surgery removes the gel and blood inside the eye and repairs the retina using laser.
Contact Us for Best LASIK treatment
Ready for the Best LASIK Treatment in Delhi? Get in touch with Eye Veda Hospital and get a free LASIK workup.
Visit Us: 📍 GF, E5, Block E, Defence Colony, Delhi – 110024
Call Us: 📞 +91-8800433050
Email Us: ✉️ [email protected]
Leave a Reply