Diabetic Retinopathy
Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy is the most common type of diabetic retinopathy and is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S. The condition develops when diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina causing the vessels to leak fluid or blood into the back of the eye.
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
With the progression of diabetic retinopathy, new blood vessels may grow and threaten your vision. New blood vessels are weak and may break open causing blood or fluid to leak in front of your retina and adversely affect your vision.
How Should Diabetic Retinopathy Be Treated?
The best way to prevent non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy development is to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Treatment for proliferative diabetic retinopathy is more varied. You should see your eye care specialist promptly if you are diabetic and are experiencing blurred vision, flashes, or floaters. We may recommend laser surgery as a necessary treatment option. In addition, the weakened vessels may cause a retinal detachment or vitreous hemorrhage. The physicians at Chicagoland Retinal Consultants are highly trained in the specialized surgery required to fix these conditions.
