Diabetic Retinopathy FAQs

One side effect of diabetes, both Type I and Type II, is a decrease in vision due to changes in the eyes, known as diabetic retinopathy. Aside from treating the other symptoms of diabetes, patients need to see an optometrist for their vision concerns. At Olson Optical in Saint James, we are here to work with our patients that are looking for treatment options for this condition. We can provide answers to any questions that you may have about diabetic retinopathy.

What causes this condition?

Diabetic retinopathy results from the swelling of blood vessels that causes blood leakage in the eyes. It is most common in patients who have had diabetes for over 10 years. However, fluctuating blood sugar levels and high blood pressure can increase the risk of the disease. Patients should recognize that this condition can develop even if their diabetes is controlled.

What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?

Many patients notice only blurred vision in the early stage of this condition. However, the later stages can involve abnormal blood vessel growth that causes vision loss. Patients may also notice blind spots, floaters, or cloudy vision in the later stages of diabetic retinopathy.

How is this disease diagnosed?

Regular optometry appointments can identify vision loss that may be caused by diabetic retinopathy. If you've recently been diagnosed with diabetes Type II, it is recommended that you also schedule a vision test and continue to do so once per year. Patients with Type I diabetes should receive eye exams five years after the diagnosis and then annual exams after that. During the exam, our eye doctor will look for signs of changes to the retina caused by leaking blood vessels.

How does treatment help?

While there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, treatment may slow the progression of the disease. Treatment is available to help stop blood vessel leakage and prevent new blood vessels from forming in the eyes. However, treatment doesn't reverse the existing vision loss.

Get Answers From Our Optometrist in Saint James, MN

If you live in or around Saint James and have questions about diabetic retinopathy, call our team at Olson Optical today at (507) 375-2020.