Diabetic Retinopathy
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
The retina is the layer at the back of the eye that is sensitive to light. Diabetes affects the small vessels of the retina, and this leads to diabetic retinopathy. There are various stages of diabetic retinopathy. For Diabetes Retinopathy Treatment in Mumbai, consult with our Eye Specialist doctor in Mumbai.
What is Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy?
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is the most severe form of diabetic retinopathy and is characterised by the growth of abnormal blood vessels on the surface of the retina. This stage of the disease often causes no symptoms, but it puts the individual at a high risk for vision loss
What Are the Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy?
Mild Nonproliferative Retinopathy
The first recognisable stage. Blood vessels in the retina begin to develop small bulges called microaneurysms, which can leak fluid into the retina. There are usually no noticeable symptoms, making it hard for people to be aware and seek medical attention.
Moderate Nonproliferative Retinopathy
The number of microaneurysms increases. When they leak fluid into the macula — the centre of the retina responsible for focusing — it causes swelling, a condition called Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), which can blur or distort vision. About half of all people with diabetic retinopathy develop DME.
Severe Nonproliferative Retinopathy
The condition affects a greater portion of the retina and causes its blood vessels to close. Bleeding from the damaged vessels can lead to floating spots or cobwebs appearing in the field of vision.
Proliferative Retinopathy
The final stage. Damage stimulates the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels on the retinal surface in response to lost oxygen and nutrients. These fragile vessels leak blood and form fibrous scar tissue that contracts and can pull the retina away — a traction retinal detachment that needs immediate attention to limit permanent vision loss.
How to Manage Diabetic Retinopathy?
Effective management starts with controlling and monitoring diabetes regularly — keeping hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure and lipid levels under control. Research shows that keeping these close to normal reduces the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy and slows its progression.
Diabetes management should include:
To prevent vision loss, people with diabetes should get a comprehensive dilated eye exam annually — or more often if already diagnosed. Early detection of diabetic retinopathy can reduce the risk of blindness by 95%. Get Diabetes Retinopathy Treatment in Mumbai at Dr. Vaidya Eye Hospital.
Regular eye examinations are especially important for:
- People with a history of diabetes for 5 or more years.
- Those who struggle to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Pregnant women with diabetes.
Treatment Options in Mumbai
Your ophthalmologist has several options depending on the stage of diabetic retinopathy.
Eye Injections
Anti-VEGF drugs (Lucentis, Avastin or Eylea) are injected directly into the eye to block abnormal blood-vessel growth and reduce swelling in macular edema. Performed in the clinic and made painless with local anaesthesia, the frequency is set by your physician based on severity and response.
Laser
Retinal laser photocoagulation directs laser at damaged retinal tissue to seal leaking blood vessels that cause diabetic macular edema and proliferative retinopathy. Modern laser is more efficient and more comfortable for patients than traditional laser treatment.
Vitrectomy
A minimally invasive, small-gauge surgery that removes the vitreous gel using tiny instruments — clearing leaked blood or scar tissue pulling on the retina. Laser is often done during the procedure, and the eye gradually replaces the removed vitreous with its own fluid, speeding recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Restore Clarity for Your Eyes
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