Diabetic retinopathy is the most common diabetic eye disease. It is characterized by damage to the blood vessels in the retina. It is a serious sight-threatening complication of diabetes. If left untreated, it can cause blindness.
How is it detected?
The American Optometric Association recommends that everyone with diabetes have a comprehensive dilated eye examination once a year. Early detection and treatment can limit the potential for vision loss from diabetic retinopathy. Come and visit Northport Vision Center LLC located in Northport, AL today to get you eye checked.
Symptoms
Often there are no symptoms or pain associated with diabetic retinopathy. Don't wait for symptoms! Have regularly scheduled eye exams at least once a year.
- Spots or floaters in your vision
- Blurred vision
- Fluctuating vision
- Impaired color vision
- Dark or empty areas in your vision
- Night vision loss
Is it preventable?
Careful management of your diabetes is the best way to prevent vision loss. If you have diabetes, see your optometrist for annual eye exams with dilation — even if your vision seems fine. Pregnancy may worsen diabetic retinopathy, so if you're pregnant, your eye doctor may recommend additional eye exams throughout your pregnancy.
