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Diabetic Retinopathy Prevention and Follow-up

Monitoring of the effects of diabetes on the eye vessels.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Diabetic Retinopathy Prevention and Follow-up?

Diabetic retinopathy is a microvascular complication caused by chronic hyperglycemia damaging retinal vessels and is the most common cause of vision loss in working-age adults. It is divided into non-proliferative (NPDR) and proliferative (PDR) stages.

In NPDR, microaneurysms, dot-blot hemorrhages, hard exudates, and cotton wool spots are seen. In PDR, new abnormal vessels (neovascularization) form and may lead to vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, and severe vision loss. Diabetic macular edema can develop at any stage.

Annual fundus examination is recommended starting 5 years after diagnosis in type 1 diabetes and from the time of diagnosis in type 2 diabetes. AI-supported retinal screening programs are increasingly used in early detection.

Symptoms

Often asymptomatic in early stages
Blurred vision
Floaters in the visual field (with vitreous hemorrhage)
Sudden vision loss (with severe hemorrhage)
Difficulty with night vision
Changes in color perception

Risk Factors

Long duration of diabetes (strongest risk factor)
Poor glycemic control
Hypertension
Dyslipidemia
Pregnancy (may accelerate retinopathy progression)
Smoking

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If blurred or impaired vision develops
  • If floaters appear in the visual field
  • When the annual eye screening is due
  • Pre-pregnancy eye examination in diabetic women planning pregnancy

Treatment Methods

01
Optimal glycemic control (HbA1c <7% — reduces retinopathy progression by 76%)
02
Blood pressure control
03
Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections (aflibercept, ranibizumab — for macular edema and PDR)
04
Laser photocoagulation (panretinal — in PDR)
05
Vitrectomy (for vitreous hemorrhage and tractional detachment)
06
Annual dilated fundus examination or retinal photography

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.