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How to Prevent and Manage Retinal Swelling Caused by Diabetes
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Diabetic retinal swelling, or diabetic macular edema, results from damage to the tiny blood vessels in the retina caused by high blood sugar levels, leading to fluid buildup and vision impairment. This condition poses a serious risk of permanent vision loss if left untreated. At ReFocus Eye Health, advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans are used to detect and manage retinal swelling effectively. Early intervention plays a crucial role in reducing swelling and protecting retinal health.
What You Need to Know About Retinal Swelling from Diabetes
When blood vessels in the retina leak fluid, the macula swells, leading to blurry vision and potentially permanent vision loss. This condition, called diabetic macular edema, can have serious consequences if left untreated. In the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metro area, about 32,000 individuals may be affected by diabetic macular edema.
Retinal swelling from diabetes occurs when high blood sugar causes small blood vessels to leak fluid into the macula, the part of your eye responsible for clear vision. This condition is known as diabetic macular edema. Even small changes in vision can make everyday tasks like reading, recognizing faces, or driving more difficult. That’s why early detection is crucial.
Dr. Rho’s expertise is grounded in dual vitreoretinal fellowships at Harvard Medical School and Loma Linda University School of Medicine, where he also earned an Outstanding Teaching Award. He is a recipient of multiple patient-choice and Top Doctor awards for his clinical care. He complements his clinical excellence with numerous peer-reviewed publications, ARVO leadership, and volunteer service through EyeCare America.
How High Blood Sugar Levels Trigger Eye Damage
Diabetes sets off a chain reaction in the eye. When blood sugar stays high, small blood vessels in the retina get damaged. They weaken and start to leak, causing fluid to build up in the macula. Here’s what can lead to that:
Why Controlling Blood Sugar Protects Your Vision
Diabetes doesn’t just affect blood sugar, it impacts many parts of the body, including your eyes. High blood sugar puts stress on the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Over time, they can leak, and fluid can build up in the macula, making it harder to see clearly.
The longer you’ve had diabetes, the higher the risk for retinal problems like swelling. That’s why regular eye exams matter, especially after years with the disease. Our retina specialists help you stay ahead of these issues with routine checks and personalized care to protect your vision.
The Role of VEGF in Abnormal Blood Vessel Growth
The body’s natural response to the reduced oxygen levels in the retina is to produce VEGF, a protein that encourages blood vessel formation. However, when this response becomes uncontrolled, it inadvertently starts a harmful cycle. Here’s how:
The Importance of Timely Diabetes Management
How Lifestyle Choices
Affect Your Eye Health
Retinal swelling from diabetes can sound overwhelming, but there are clear steps you can take to lower your risk and protect your vision:
Advanced Imaging for Monitoring
To monitor retinal swelling, our retina specialists use advanced imaging tools that show detailed changes in the eye. One key tool is optical coherence tomography (OCT), which gives a near-microscopic view of the retina. It helps spot fluid buildup and subtle macular changes early, often before symptoms appear.
We also use fluorescein angiography, a test that highlights leaking blood vessels with a special dye. These imaging techniques help us tell retinal swelling apart from other conditions and guide the right treatment. With this technology, we can track changes closely and act quickly to protect your vision.
Get Expert Retina Specialist Care for Diabetic Retinopathy and Retinal Swelling Now
Early detection is critical in preventing vision loss caused by retinal swelling from diabetic damage. Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with the expert team at ReFocus Eye Health ensures timely diagnosis and effective management. Compassionate care and personalized treatment plans are provided to protect and preserve vision. Don’t wait for symptoms to develop, proactive eye health monitoring is essential. Reach out today to book an appointment by phone or online.
At ReFocus Eye Health Philadelphia, formerly known as Soll Eye, you’ll find a tradition of care that spans over six decades. Conveniently located on Grant Avenue, our practice has become a trusted name in comprehensive eye care for patients throughout Philadelphia, Camden and Bucks County. Whether you need a routine eye check or are considering advanced surgery, our experienced team is committed to providing personalized, expert care. With a legacy of excellence and a reputation for treating patients like family, we deliver care that’s not only advanced, but genuinely personal.