Adult Eye Services

Prevent Future Problems with Eyesight Care

Just like with children and seniors, regular eye care can help adults maintain their vision. At Mason Eye Center of Mason, Ohio, we have 25 years of experience.

Learn About Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy:

There are about 13 million people in the US who have some form of diabetes and it is estimated 90% of those will develop diabetic retinopathy to some degree. Mason Eye Center recommends an eye exam every year, especially for diabetics. Factors such as pregnancy, high blood pressure, smoking, and diets rich in fats can increase the chances of developing diabetic retinopathy.

As the name implies, diabetic retinopathy is a potentially serious eye disorder that affects the retina. The retina receives images focused on its surface by the cornea and lens. These images are transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve, thereby creating the miracle of sight. Any damage to the retina will result in diminished vision and can even lead to loss in central vision or total blindness.

There are two types of diabetic retinopathy: background diabetic retinopathy and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The proliferative type is the advanced stage of the disease and affects about 5% of all diabetics, mostly those who have had diabetes for longer periods of time. One of the complications of diabetes is the weakening of tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. Blood can leak from these weak vessels and reduce the nourishment of the retina. The blood vessels may also leak into the vitreous humor, the clear, jelly-like fluid that fills the inner cavity of the eye. The leak can cause cloudiness in vision. Connective scar tissue can also form from damaged blood vessels and can, over time, shrink and exert a pulling effect on the retina. This can result in a retinal detachment, another serious side effect of proliferative diabetic retinopathy.