Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes that affects the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye responsible for capturing visual images. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels of the retina, leading to bleeding, fluid leakage, and scarring.

In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may cause no noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, it can lead to blurry vision, floaters, and even permanent vision loss if left untreated. Because these changes can occur silently, routine diabetic eye exams are essential to detect problems early and prevent irreversible damage.

At Nile Eye Care & Surgery, we perform comprehensive diabetic eye examinations, including dilated retinal exams and retinal imaging (OCT and fundus photography) to monitor even subtle retinal changes before vision is affected.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy typically progresses through several stages:

  • Mild Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: Tiny bulges in retinal vessels (microaneurysms) leak small amounts of fluid.

  • Moderate Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: Blood vessels become blocked, leading to localized retinal damage.

  • Severe Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: Multiple vessel blockages starve areas of the retina of oxygen (ischemia), signaling the body to grow new, abnormal blood vessels.

  • Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR): Fragile new vessels form on the retinal surface, which can bleed, leak fluid, and lead to retinal detachment or sudden vision loss if not promptly treated.

In addition, Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) may occur at any stage when fluid accumulates in the macula—the central area of the retina responsible for sharp vision—causing blurry or distorted sight.

Symptoms to Watch For

Many people with diabetic retinopathy notice no symptoms until the disease is advanced.

Warning signs may include:

  • Blurred or fluctuating vision

  • Dark or empty spots in vision

  • Difficulty reading or seeing fine details

  • New floaters or flashes of light

  • Sudden or severe vision loss

If you have diabetes, it’s important not to wait for symptoms—schedule regular diabetic eye exams to protect your sight.

Prevention and Eye Protection Tips

Scientific studies show that careful diabetes management can significantly reduce your risk of developing retinopathy. You can help protect your vision by the following—however, medical examination is essential:

  • Controlling blood sugar levels — keeping HbA1c near your target range

  • Managing blood pressure and cholesterol

  • Avoiding smoking, which accelerates blood vessel damage

  • Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3s, and antioxidants

  • Scheduling yearly dilated eye exams (or more frequently if recommended)

Early detection through routine exams remains the most powerful way to prevent vision loss. Diabetic patients should have a dilated fundus exam at least once a year.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity and type of diabetic retinopathy. Early cases may simply require closer monitoring and medical control of diabetes. Advanced disease, however, may need active retinal intervention—such as intra-vitreal anti-VEGF injection or laser treatment—to prevent vision loss. At Nile Eye Care & Surgery, we utilize advanced retinal imaging and OCT guidance to track treatment response and fine-tune care for each patient. These therapies can stabilize, and in many cases improve, vision and reduce the risk of severe vision loss from diabetic eye disease.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice.

Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam

If you have diabetes, protecting your vision begins with regular care. Nile Eye Care & Surgery offers comprehensive diabetic eye exams and advanced treatments to help prevent or manage diabetic retinopathy. Call today to schedule your appointment!