Diabetic Retinopathy: How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes & How to Protect Them
Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in adults – affecting 1 in 3 people with diabetes. At LJ Eye Institute, Patiala, we combine advanced screening, early intervention, and cutting-edge treatments to prevent vision loss. This guide explains how diabetes damages your eyes and how to safeguard your sight.
How Diabetes Damages Your Eyes
High blood sugar gradually injures retinal blood vessels, leading to:
- Weakened Vessels: Leak blood/fluid into the retina (macular edema).
- Oxygen Starvation: Triggers abnormal vessel growth (proliferative retinopathy).
- Scar Tissue: Causes retinal detachment.
Timeline:
- Type 1 Diabetes: Screen within 5 years of diagnosis.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Screen immediately at diagnosis (damage may already exist).
Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
1. Mild Non-Proliferative (Early Stage)
- Microaneurysms (tiny vessel bulges) leak fluid.
- No symptoms – detectable only via retinal exam.
2. Moderate Non-Proliferative
- Vessels swell/distort → reduced blood flow.
- Blurred vision may begin.
3. Severe Non-Proliferative
- Widespread vessel blockage → retina starved of oxygen.
- Dark floaters, distorted vision.
4. Proliferative (Advanced Stage)
- New fragile vessels grow (leak blood → vitreous hemorrhage).
- Scar tissue → retinal detachment.
- Risk of permanent blindness
Warning Signs You Should NEVER Ignore
- Blurred/changing vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Impaired color vision
- Empty/dark areas in visual field
- Sudden vision loss
Advanced Treatments at LJ Eye Institute, Patiala
Diagnostic Technology
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): 3D retina imaging.
- Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA): Maps blood vessel leakage.
- Retinal Photography: Tracks disease progression.
Treatment Options
| Treatment | Purpose | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-VEGF Injections | Shrinks abnormal vessels, reduces swelling | Macular Edema |
| Laser Photocoagulation | Stops leakage/seals retina | Non-Proliferative Stages |
| Vitrectomy | Removes blood/scar tissue from vitreous | Advanced Hemorrhage/Detachment |
Why Choose LJ Eye Institute, Patiala?
Expert Retina Team
- Dr. Ruchi Mittal (Vitreo-Retina Specialist, 20+ years experience).
- Dedicated diabetic retinopathy management program.
Advanced Care Ecosystem
- Same-Day Diagnostic Reports (OCT, FFA).
- Laser & Injection Suites (On-site).
- Structured Follow-Ups – Personalized monitoring.
Prevention-Focused Approach
- Free Diabetes Eye Screening Camps (Community outreach).
- Diet & Lifestyle Counseling – Integrated care.