In the early stage of diabetic retinopathy, you may not experience any symptoms. Regular diabetic eye examinations are essential for early detection and treatment, to prevent the risk of disease progression and severe vision loss. 

As diabetic retinopathy progresses it will start to cause more noticeable problems including blurry vision, distortion, floaters, and patchy or sudden loss of vision.

Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on the severity and stage of the condition. 

Early stages of diabetic retinopathy may not need treatment and your specialist may recommend close monitoring with regular eye examinations. To reduce the risk of disease progression it is important to control your blood sugar levels, follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and take prescribed medications as directed. 

For later stages of diabetic retinopathy, when vision is affected, treatment includes: 

Intravitreal anti-VEGF Injections

Anti-VEGF is a medication that inhibits the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduces leakage and swelling in the retina. The medication is injected into the affected eye into the vitreous cavity and is usually performed in the office under local anaesthetic drops. 

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Laser treatment

Laser treatment is used to seal off any leaking blood vessels, reduce swelling and inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth. 

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Retinal surgery

In advanced cases of diabetic retinopathy where there is severe bleeding in the vitreous or scar tissue formation on the retina, a surgical procedure called vitrectomy may be necessary. During vitrectomy, the vitreous gel is removed and scar tissue is removed, allowing for better visual clarity.

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