Long term poorly controlled diabetes often leads to problems with kidneys and other organs. Your eyes are no exception. Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition in which diabetes damages blood vessels in the retina. It’s the most common cause of vision loss under age 70. Retinopathy is often silent initially. Overtime it can lead to difficulty reading or even complete vision loss.
You may not have symptoms of diabetic retinopathy right away. The best approach is prevention with yearly exams by an ophthalmologist. Identifying minor changes before they become severe is important. However, if you experience these three common symptoms, you should get an eye exam right away.
Floaters
If you have spots, dark strings, or other “objects” in your field of vision, you may have diabetic retinopathy. Floaters can be a symptom of other eye conditions as well, so it is important to visit an ophthalmologist so that you can get a comprehensive exam and testing for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Fluctuating Vision
You may notice that your vision seems fine at times, with it waning and causing problems at other times. This fluctuating vision can be a sign of swelling in the macula called diabetic macular edema. You may also experience blurry vision, either all the time or at frequent intervals. Blurry vision is also a symptom of other eye conditions, so proper diagnosis is of the utmost importance.
Dark Areas of Vision
You may have some areas of your vision that are completely dark. It is similar to when an ink spot covers a portion of a photograph. You will be able to see in front of you, but there may be a small patch of darkness in one area.
If you are experiencing these or any other symptoms of vision problems, contact our office today for a complete examination and diagnosis. Even if there are no symptoms, diabetes should be getting yearly dilated eye exams. The sooner diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed the easier it is to treat. Contact us today for an appointment.