What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy, also known as Diabetic Macular Edema, is the most common cause of blindness in working-age adults in the Western World. It is caused by high blood sugars damaging the blood vessels in the retina.
- Diabetes can affect the entire body, including the eyes, kidneys, heart and brain.
- Dr. Pandya says, “you can lose your toes to diabetes, and your eyes are no different.”
- Anyone with diabetes can suffer from blindness, especially if their blood glucose and blood pressure is uncontrolled.
- Whenever blood flow to the Retina is compromised from diabetes and high blood pressure, the vital tissues of the Retina are subject to damage from a lack of oxygen and nutrients.
- The lack of oxygen and nutrients to the Retina may lead to formation of new blood vessels that are likely to ‘break open’ and cause bleeding within the Vitreous gel.
- Effectively, uncontrolled diabetes and associated diabetic retinopathy often leads to blindness.
- We strongly urge all of our patients to seek a primary care physician to help manage their diabetes and high blood pressure.
- Our goal is to maximize your vision and improve your quality of life.
Learn more about Diabetic Retinopathy:
Or call us at
469-430-8375
Questions? We’re here to help.
As President of the American Retina Forum, Dr. Pandya continues to be a leader within the Vitreoretinal community both locally and nationwide. Dr. Pandya strives to provide personalized and compassionate care for all of his patients.