Contents
How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated? A Simple Guide
Published: Mar 30, 2024
Understanding the treatment options for diabetic retinopathy can help you manage your condition better. Here's a breakdown of the procedures involved.
Laser Photocoagulation
This common treatment uses laser light to seal or destroy leaking blood vessels in the retina. The procedure is quick, and while it can't restore lost vision, it can prevent further loss. It's especially effective in treating proliferative diabetic retinopathy and macular edema.
VEGF Inhibitors
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors are drugs injected into the eye to reduce swelling and slow vision loss. These injections are repeated over time and are often used alongside other treatments. They have shown great success in preserving vision in patients with diabetic retinopathy.
The Role of Surgery
In cases where laser treatment and VEGF inhibitors are not enough, surgery may be required. Vitrectomy is a procedure that removes blood and scar tissue from the eye, restoring vision. It's usually considered when other treatments fail to control the damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a laser treatment that seals leaking blood vessels in the retina.
They are injected into the eye to reduce swelling and prevent vision loss.
Surgery is a last resort when other treatments are ineffective.
Treatments can't restore lost vision but can prevent further loss.
Treatment Insights
Understanding your treatment options for diabetic retinopathy can empower you to preserve your vision.
References
- The efficacy of laser photocoagulation and/or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors in preventing visual loss from proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and macular edema (ME) is well established in randomized trials.
- Ahmed J, Ward TP, Bursell SE, et al. The sensitivity and specificity of nonmydriatic digital stereoscopic retinal imaging in detecting diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes Care 2006; 29:2205.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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