Diabetes affects millions of Americans and can have a profound impact on eye health. Among its most serious complications is diabetic eye disease. At Eastside Eye Physicians, our ophthalmologists specialize in identifying and treating diabetic eye disease before it progresses. Through advanced imaging, medical management, and preventive care, early detection remains the most powerful tool for preserving sight and preventing avoidable blindness.
 

Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye conditions that can develop as a result of diabetes. The most common of these is diabetic retinopathy, which affects the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage these vessels, causing them to swell, leak, or close entirely. When this occurs, it interferes with the retina’s ability to process images, leading to blurred vision and, in advanced stages, severe vision loss.
 

Other related conditions include:
 

•          Diabetic macular edema (DME): A buildup of fluid in the macula (the central part of the retina), leading to distorted or blurry central vision.

•          Cataracts: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age.

•          Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
 

How Diabetic Eye Disease Develops

The development of diabetic eye disease is gradual and often without early warning signs. Initially, the blood vessels in the retina weaken due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. In the early, non-proliferative stage of diabetic retinopathy, these weakened vessels can leak small amounts of blood or fluid, forming deposits that blur vision.
 

If blood sugar and blood pressure remain uncontrolled, the condition can progress to proliferative diabetic retinopathy, in which the retina grows new, abnormal blood vessels to compensate for oxygen loss. These vessels are fragile and prone to bleeding, leading to scar tissue formation and, in some cases, retinal detachment - an urgent medical emergency that can cause permanent blindness if not treated promptly.
 

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of diabetic eye disease is critical because once significant vision loss occurs, it is often irreversible. We have specialized training and advanced diagnostic tools to detect subtle changes in retinal health long before symptoms appear.
 

When detected early, diabetic eye disease can often be managed with:
 

•          Laser treatments to seal leaking blood vessels and prevent further vision loss.

•          Injections of medications that reduce retinal swelling and block the growth of abnormal blood vessels.

•          Surgical procedures in advanced cases to remove blood or scar tissue from the retina.
 

Just as importantly, maintaining stable blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can significantly reduce the risk of progression.
 

Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam Today

Diabetic eye disease is a serious but preventable complication of diabetes. The damage it causes develops gradually and painlessly, making regular eye exams your best defense against permanent vision loss. Through proactive care, advanced imaging, and timely intervention, early detection can make all the difference.
 

At Eastside Eye Physicians, we provide comprehensive diabetic eye exams using advanced diagnostic technology to detect problems early and prevent vision loss. Schedule your diabetic eye exam and take control of your eye health before symptoms appear. Contact our offices in St. Clair Shores or Shelby Township, Michigan, by calling (586) 774-2020 to book an appointment today.