Managing Diabetic Retinopathy in Hampstead, NC
Stay Ahead of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease affecting millions of people with diabetes worldwide. In fact, nearly one-third of diabetic individuals over the age of 40 have some form of diabetic retinopathy, making it a leading cause of vision loss.
Despite its prevalence, many people with diabetes don’t realize the impact this disease can have on their vision. We provide early detection and management of diabetic retinopathy, helping our patients protect their vision and maintain long-term eye health.
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. High blood sugar levels can damage these tiny blood vessels, causing them to leak fluid or blood, swell, or even close off completely. Abnormal new blood vessels may grow on the retina's surface, leading to more severe vision problems.
Developing Diabetic Retinopathy?
While anyone with diabetes is at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, certain factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing this condition:
- Duration of Diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, the greater your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Those who have had diabetes for 10 years or more are at particularly high risk.
- Poor Blood Sugar Control: Uncontrolled or fluctuating blood sugar levels can accelerate damage to the blood vessels in the retina.
- High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can compound the damage to retinal blood vessels, worsening the effects of the disease.
- High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to the buildup of fatty deposits in the blood vessels, leading to further damage in the retina.
- Smoking: Smoking can constrict blood vessels and increase the risk of developing eye diseases.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can worsen diabetic retinopathy, especially in women who already have diabetes.
Detecting and Managing Diabetic Retinopathy
Atlantic Eye Associates uses advanced diagnostic technology to detect diabetic retinopathy in its earliest stages and monitor its progression. We aim to provide comprehensive eye care that protects your vision and helps you manage this condition effectively.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
Our OCT technology captures detailed, cross-sectional images of your retina, allowing us to detect subtle changes in the retinal layers. This helps us identify fluid buildup or swelling.
Fundus
Photography
We use fundus photography to take high-resolution images of the back of your eye. These images help us monitor any changes and document the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Fluorescein
Angiography
In cases where more detailed imaging is needed, we may perform fluorescein angiography. A special dye is injected into the bloodstream, and photographs are taken as the dye travels through the blood vessels in your eye.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Based on the stage and severity of diabetic retinopathy, we create a customized management plan that may include lifestyle recommendations, medications, or referrals to a specialist.
Regular Monitoring
For patients with diabetic retinopathy, regular follow-up appointments are crucial to track any changes in the retina and adjust your treatment plan as needed.