Diabetic Retinopathy: Why Routine Retina Check-Ups Are Essential
Introduction:
Diabetes is not only a chronic condition affecting millions of people in India but also a silent contributor to visual problems. According to a recent survey, the incidence of diabetes among the Indian population aged 40 to 60 is 44%, while it stands at 42% among those over 60. Beyond the more known complications, diabetes poses a significant threat to vision through a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. Alarmingly, statistics show that after just five years of living with diabetes, 25% of patients develop diabetic retinopathy, and 2% develop its more advanced form—proliferative diabetic retinopathy. As the duration of diabetes increases, so does the risk, with 78% of type 2 diabetics showing some form of retinal damage after 15 years.
Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy:
Diabetic retinopathy is a result of damage to the blood vessels of the retina, the light sensitive layer at the back of your eye. In the early stages, this condition may not produce any symptoms, making routine retina check-ups essential for early detection. However, as the disease progresses, patients may experience symptoms such as blurred vision, floaters, or dark spots in their field of vision.
It is important to note that the loss of vision due to diabetic retinopathy cannot be corrected with spectacles alone. Instead, a comprehensive retina scan is necessary to determine the stage of the disease and the appropriate treatment.
Diabetic Retinopathy is categorized into two main stages:
1. Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR):
This is the early stage of the condition, where the retinal blood vessels exhibit signs of leakage, leading to haemorrhages, exudates (fatty deposits), and other abnormalities. There may also be a build-up of fluid in the central part of the retina, a condition known as macular oedema. This fluid accumulation can distort vision and is typically detected through a retina scan. Treatment for macular oedema often involves administering injections into the eye to reduce swelling and prevent further damage.
2. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR):
This advanced stage occurs when abnormal new blood vessels develop in the retina. These fragile vessels are prone to rupture, causing bleeding into the vitreous cavity—the clear gel that fills the eye. When this happens, vision may become severely impaired, and surgery may be required to restore sight. In its earlier phases, proliferative diabetic retinopathy is often treated with laser therapy to shrink the abnormal blood vessels and prevent further loss.
Why Routine Retina Check-Ups Are Crucial
Given the high risk of vision damage associated with diabetes, routine retina check-ups and retina scans are vital for all diabetic patients. Early detection through regular screening can prevent severe and irreversible vision loss. Many people with diabetes may not experience any symptoms until the condition has already caused significant damage, making proactive eye care essential.
Get Your Eyes Screened Today
If you or a loved one has diabetes, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule a routine retina check-up to safeguard your vision and detect any signs of diabetic retinopathy. Early treatment can save your sight and improve your quality of life.
Take the step to protect your vision—get a retina scan today!