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Diabetic Retinopathy
Eye Surgery for Diabetic Retinopathy - Diagnosis, Surgery, and Recovery
In diabetes, diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss and blindness in the eyes. To prevent the condition from getting worse and causing vision loss, proper management is essential. Consult our eye specialists in India to learn more about the treatment options in detail. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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Diabetic Retinopathy: What Is It?
Diabetic retinopathy, a result of diabetes, affects the eyes by causing damage to the blood vessels in the retina. Initially, it may not present noticeable symptoms. As it advances, however, you may encounter signs such as blurry or uneven vision, floaters (dark spots or strings that appear to be floating), trouble seeing in low light conditions, discomfort or redness in the eye, and eventual loss of vision.
For diabetics, regular eye exams are essential to detecting and treating diabetic retinopathy early. The condition may be treated with laser therapy, medication, or surgery depending on its severity. Diabetes management and blood sugar control can also help reduce the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetes and poor blood sugar control increase the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Increasing blood pressure and cholesterol levels can also contribute to its progression.
Diabetic Retinopathy Types: What Are They?
There are two main types of diabetic retinopathy based on their severity and progression:
Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), the initial stage of diabetic retinopathy, involves weakened blood vessels in the retina that may leak small amounts of blood or fluid into the eye. If this leakage occurs in the macula, it is referred to as macular edema. As the swelling progresses, it can result in closure of the blood vessels and lead to macular ischemia, an irreversible and untreatable condition causing permanent central vision loss.
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): This is the advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy. PDR involves the development of new, weak blood vessels on the retina and in the vitreous gel of the eye. Those new vessels can bleed, cloud the vitreous, and cause severe vision loss. Scar tissue can also develop, resulting in retinal detachment and possibly complete blindness.
A diabetic retinopathy can affect either eye or both eyes. It is important to note that diabetic retinopathy is a progressive disease. In the absence of proper diabetes management, NPDR can progress to PDR over time. In order to prevent severe vision loss, it is important to have regular eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy early and manage it.
What should I do to prepare for diabetic retinopathy treatment?
For injections administered to slow down the progression of diabetic retinopathy, no specific preparation is required.
Laser Treatment Preparation
Due to blurry vision, you won't be able to drive back home by yourself.
Before surgery, the patient should eat proper food and take diabetic medications.
Aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin, and other blood thinners should be avoided.
Vitrectomy preparation
Similar to laser treatment, the instructions given to patients prior to vitrectomy are as follows:
With a small sip of water, take your diabetes medications.
Provide the doctor team with all test reports after getting your eyes tested thoroughly.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid wearing makeup.
On the day of surgery, do not eat or drink anything.
The doctor will only advise against taking blood thinners if you have an increased risk of blood clots causing a stroke or heart attack.
Treatment options that do not require surgery
Non-surgical treatment options for diabetic retinopathy include:
Diabetic retinopathy is primarily managed through medical treatments to control underlying diabetes. There are several medications commonly used to treat diabetic retinopathy.
In diabetic macular edema, steroid medications like bevacizumab, ranibizumab, and aflibercept can reduce swelling in the retina
Controlling blood sugar levels with medications such as insulin or oral medications is essential for managing diabetes and slowing the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Your eye surgeon may prescribe medications to control your blood pressure if you have high blood pressure. Proper blood pressure management is crucial for diabetic retinopathy management.
A lifestyle modification can play a huge role in managing diabetic retinopathy and preventing its progression.
Keeping your blood sugar levels within target ranges is important for managing diabetic retinopathy.
You should eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy. You should also avoid refined carbohydrates, sugar, and saturated fats. To manage calorie intake and blood sugar levels, be mindful of portion sizes as well.
Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by your healthcare provider. Exercise can improve overall health and lower blood sugar levels.
Monitor your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor's advice to maintain healthy levels. If medication is prescribed, take it as directed.
You should quit smoking if you smoke. Smoking can exacerbate diabetic retinopathy and increase the risk of other complications.
Consuming alcohol in moderation can help control blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
Make sure you have regular eye examinations with an ophthalmologist. Diabetic retinopathy requires early detection and treatment.
It is important to inspect your feet daily for any sores, blisters, or signs of infection. Diabetes can affect the health of your feet, so proper foot care is essential.
After Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment, What Are The Common Recovery Tips?
Following diabetic retinopathy treatment, you should follow some post-operative tips for success and for preserving your vision.
During the first few days following diabetic retinopathy treatment, you should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
Keep an eye out for changes in your vision, such as blurriness, sudden flashes of light, or new floaters. Report these changes to your eye doctor as soon as possible.
To reduce the risk of infection, avoid swimming or exposing your eyes to water.
Consult your doctor about driving restrictions. You may need to refrain from driving until your eye doctor has cleared you.
Observe all post-operative instructions provided by your ophthalmologist or retinal specialist. This includes taking prescribed medications, protecting your eyes, and attending follow-up appointments.
Rub your eyes gently to prevent infection or dislodging any eye shields or bandages.
Make sure you attend all follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist. Regular monitoring will allow you to determine whether the treatment is working and whether any adjustments need to be made.
It is important to maintain good eye hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or applying eye drops.
When you're outdoors, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright sunlight and UV rays.
You may be given an eye shield to wear during sleep or after your procedure. Ensure that you wear the eye shield as directed.
During the first few days after treatment, give your eyes plenty of rest.
If you've been prescribed eye drops by your eye doctor, use them exactly as prescribed. They may prevent infection or manage inflammation.
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