State-of-the-Art Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment in Fair Lawn
Every year in the U.S., millions of men and women experience some degree of vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy (sometimes referred to as DR), a group of chronic eye diseases that affect the light-sensitive retina at the very back of the eye. Although diabetic retinopathy is most common among seniors, it can affect younger people with diabetes as well. As a leading optometry practice in Fair Lawn, NJ, Resident Eye Care Associates offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options for patients with diabetic retinopathy, identifying the disease in its early stages when treatment is most effective.
What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?
There are two primary types of DR:
- Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy, the most common type, occurs when tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye become weak and deformed, resulting in leakage that interferes with sight.
- Proliferative retinopathy is much less common and occurs when the blood vessels become blocked. New vessels begin to form, creating a dense network that blocks light. Eventually, the retina may detach from the eye.
Macular edema is a condition related to diabetic retinopathy that occurs when the central part of the retina (the macula) swells with fluid.
Several factors can increase your risk for diabetic retinopathy, including:
- how well you control your glucose levels
- your blood pressure
- your genes
You’re also more likely to develop the disease the longer you’ve had diabetes and if you have type 1 diabetes.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy can cause different symptoms depending on the stage of the disease. Symptoms can include:
- blurry vision
- dark spots in your field of vision
- loss of definition or vibrancy in colors
- increased numbers of floaters, squiggly lines, and dots that float in front of your field of vision
Having regular diabetic retinopathy exams is essential for identifying these symptoms as early as possible, During the exam, the eye doctor will use special tests and computer technology to assess the retina and look for signs of DR. In addition to a comprehensive eye exam, a special dye can be used to highlight the tiny vessels in and around the retina to make it easier for your eye doctor to spot abnormal areas.
Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment
Diabetic retinopathy treatment begins with optimizing your glucose control. With good glucose control, you can significantly reduce your risks of vision loss. Having frequent diabetic retinopathy exams is also an important part of care, enabling your optometrist to monitor the development of the disease so your treatment can be tailored to your needs. In more severe forms of the disease, injections or laser treatments may be recommended to help prevent fluid leakage and to prevent new vessels from growing. Your optometrist will work closely with you to ensure you receive proper referrals and appropriate care to protect your vision.
Visit a Top Diabetic Retinopathy doctor in Fair Lawn, NJ
Diabetic retinopathy cannot be cured, but the progression of the disease can be managed and slowed, and in some cases, vision loss can be halted or reversed. The key to achieving the best possible outcome is to see a diabetic retinopathy doctor in Fair Lawn, NJ who’s skilled in diagnosing and managing the disease in all its stages. At Resident Eye Care Associates, our optometrists are experienced in diabetic retinopathy diagnosis and treatment, helping patients understand their risks and their treatment options so they can enjoy the best possible vision. To schedule your vision exam or to learn more about diabetic retinopathy, contact our office at (201) 797-2747 and schedule an appointment today.