09/11/2025
November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month!
What is Diabetic Eye Disease? ๐๏ธ
Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye problems that can occur in people with diabetes. The most common types include:
Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to vision loss.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Swelling in the macula (the central part of the retina) due to fluid leakage from blood vessels.
The Risk Factors include Poor blood sugar control, High blood pressure, High cholesterol and especially, Duration of diabetes
Symptoms to Watch For โ ๏ธ
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Dark or empty areas in vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sudden vision changes
Treatment Options ๐ฉบ
1. Lifestyle Changes
Blood Sugar Management: Keep your sugar levels down!
Diet and Exercise: Healthy eating and regular physical activity can improve overall health.
2. Medical Treatments
Laser Treatment: Used to seal or destroy leaking blood vessels.
Intravitreal Injections: A key treatment for diabetic eye disease.
What are Intravitreal Injections ๐
Intravitreal injections involve delivering medication directly into the eye's vitreous gel. This method targets the retina and can help manage conditions like DME and diabetic retinopathy. At OasisEye Specialists Kuching, the latest intravitreal therapies are available, such as Eylea (Ablifercept) HD and Vabysmo (Faricimab) designed to minimise the number of injections people may require.
Benefits
Can significantly improve vision or prevent further vision loss.
Often requires multiple injections over time for optimal results.
Conclusion
Diabetic eye disease is a serious complication of diabetes, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, it is possible to manage and preserve vision. If you have diabetes, regular eye exams are crucial. If you notice any changes in your vision, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Remember, maintaining good blood sugar control is key! ๐
For More Information
Consult your eye care professional.
Visit reputable diabetes and eye health websites.