Browsing: Diabetic Retinopathy

Your retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the inside of your eye. It sends visual messages through the optic nerve to the brain. When the retina detaches, it is lifted from its normal position. This can lead to retinal detachment, if not treated, causing even permanent loss of vision.

In 1989, the isolation and cloning of vascular endothelial growth factor-A was a milestone in understanding the formation of new blood vessels from the pre-existing vessels. The concept of angiogenesis then became clear. This laid foundations of improved treatments for colorectal cancers.

Diabetic patients are at a greater risk of retinopathy or eye disorders. Doctors advise these patients a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year to cut the chances of diabetic retinopathy. Laser treatment has the potential to prevent extensive eye damage and therefore it is recommended to patients.

Diabetic retinopathy is a chronic condition of the eye caused as a complication of diabetes. It leads to damage of the retina, which is a light sensitive tissue at the back of the eyes. In severe cases you may lose your sight. It occurs in more than half of the people who develop diabetes.

Blindness due to diabetic retinopathy is very common in the United States and in some cases, it cannot be controlled by simple preventive measures. Anti-VEGF medications, laser treatment and vitrectomy (eye) surgery can be recommended for vision improvement.

Diabetes may affect various parts of your eye, including the retina, macula, lens and the optic nerve. More than 25 million Americans have diabetes, and the number is considerably increasing. People with diabetes are at risk for diabetic eye diseases and risk for losing vision. Diabetic retinopathy creates a greater risk to the vision.