We Believe Healthy Vision Goes Beyond 20/20

Our optometric practice proudly serves the people of the Luverne MN area including Adrian, Hills, Beaver Creek, Lismore, Worthington, Pipestone, Rock Rapids, Steen, Brandon, Kenneth, Ellsworth, Rushmore, and many more.

Patient Testimonials

My 7 year old son didn't pass his school eye screening and we went for a check-up to Rock County Eye Clinic. We have ret...
1reception

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that affects the retina in people who have diabetes.

The retina is the light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye, and detects light that is then processed as an image by the brain. Chronically high blood sugar or large fluctuations in blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina. This can result in bleeding in the retina or leakage of fluid.

Diabetic retinopathy can be divided into non-proliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy: In the early stage of the disease, there is weakening of the blood vessels in the retina that causes out-pouching called microaneurysms. These microaneurysms can leak fluid into the retina. There can also be yellow deposits called hard exudates present in the retina from leaky vessels.

Diabetic macula edema is when the fluid leaks into the region of the retina called the macula. The macula is important for sharp, central vision needed for reading and driving. The accumulation of fluid in the macula causes blurry vision.

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy: As diabetic retinopathy progresses, new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina. These blood vessels are fragile, which makes them likely to bleed into the vitreous, which is the clear gel that fills the middle of the eye. Bleeding inside the eye is seen as floaters or spots. Over time, scar tissue can then form on the surface of the retina and contract, leading to a retinal detachment. This is similar to wallpaper contracting and peeling away from the wall. If left untreated, retinal detachment can lead to loss of vision.

Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy:

  • Asymptomatic: In the early stages of mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the person will usually have no visual complaints. Therefore, it is important for people with diabetes to have a comprehensive dilated exam by their eye doctor once a year.
  • Floaters: This is usually from bleeding into the vitreous cavity from proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
  • Blurred vision: This can be the result of fluid leaking into the retina, causing diabetic macular edema.

Risk factors for diabetic retinopathy:

  • Blood sugar. Lower blood sugar will delay the onset and slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy. Chronically high blood sugar and the longer the duration of diabetes, the more likely chance of that person having diabetic retinopathy.
  • Medical conditions. People with high blood pressure and high cholesterol are at greater risk for developing diabetic retinopathy.
  • Ethnicity. Hispanics, African Americans and Native Americans are at greater risk for developing diabetic retinopathy.
  • Pregnancy. Women with diabetes could have an increased risk of developing diabetic retinopathy during pregnancy. If they already have diabetic retinopathy, it might worsen during pregnancy.

 

Article contributed by Jane Pan M.D.

The content of this blog cannot be reproduced or duplicated without the express written consent of Eye IQ

Come Visit Us

map

104 N Freeman Ave.
Luverne MN 56156
Phone: (507) 283-2345
Fax: 507-283-2346
Get Directions

Mon. - Thurs. 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 4pm
Sat. Sun. Closed
  • image1

    Modern, Yet Cozy Shopping Experience

    Coming to our office is a relaxing experience for your entire family. We're looking forward to seeing you!
  • image2

    Your Time Is Important

    You're busy, so we try our best to make sure all aspects of your visit with us are as streamlined as possible.
  • image3

    Wide Product Selection

    We carry a wide line of great product lines, including Nike, Sperry, Champion, Nicole Miller and so many more!
  • image4

    Family Friendly Atmosphere

    Healthy vision for your entire family, from infants to grandparents, is our highest priority.