Diabetic retinopathy - specialist treatment in Delhi

Every diabetic patient should have a comprehensive dilated fundus examination at least once a year - even if vision feels perfect. If retinopathy is already detected, the frequency increases to every 3 - 6 months depending on severity. Many patients lose significant vision before they notice any symptoms - annual screening is the single most effective preventive step.

Existing retinal damage cannot be fully reversed. However, progression can be significantly slowed or halted with good blood sugar control (HbA1c below 7%), laser treatment, and intravitreal injections. In cases with diabetic macular oedema (DMO), anti-VEGF injections can actually improve central vision in many patients - so prompt treatment genuinely improves outcomes.

DMO occurs when fluid leaks into the macula - the central part of the retina responsible for reading, fine detail and colour vision. It causes blurred central vision and is the most common cause of vision loss in diabetic patients. It is treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections (Avastin, Lucentis, Eylea) or sustained-release steroid implants, and responds well when caught early.

Yes. Eye damage can lag behind blood sugar improvement by months or even years. Blood sugar control dramatically slows progression but does not eliminate the need for regular eye screening. The DCCT study showed that tight glucose control reduces the risk of developing retinopathy by 76% - but screening remains essential even in well-controlled diabetics.

Retinal laser (photocoagulation) is performed under topical anaesthetic drops and is generally well-tolerated. Some patients feel a mild sensation with each laser application. The procedure takes 20 - 40 minutes and is done as an outpatient visit. There is minimal recovery - most patients return to normal activities the following day.