Diabetic Retinal Detachment

Overview

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that has several health implications linked to it, particularly if it’s unmanaged. One of these complications involves the eye, more specifically, the retina, in this case. Diabetes, categorised as a chronic metabolic disease, is characterised by elevated blood sugar levels due to the insufficient production or improper use of insulin, a key hormone that stabilises blood sugar levels.

Diabetic retinal detachment, one of the few complications of diabetes, occurs when the retina detaches from the back part of the eye due to the presence of scar tissue, a key factor in pulling it apart. Diabetic retinopathy, another complication of unmanaged diabetes, affects the tiny blood vessels of the retina. During the advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy, scar tissue is likely to develop. The scar tissue is likely to contract and pull the retina, increasing the likelihood of detachment.

Common Signs of Retinal Detachment

• Dark spots or lines obscuring your vision
• Hazy vision
• Loss of peripheral (side) vision

What should I do if my retina detaches?

The only way to be sure of retinal detachment is to undergo a comprehensive examination by your ophthalmologist. Early diagnosis, which consists of a dilated eye examination, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography (OCT), reveals leaky, damaged or broken retinal blood vessels.

What does treatment involve?

Treatment initially involves managing symptoms of diabetic retinopathy before the condition progresses further. However, for more advanced diabetic retinopathy, Dr Yako may initiate advanced treatments such as vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors to prevent fluid build-up for proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Treatment is based on individual symptoms, the type of disorder and the patient's overall health. Therefore, each treatment plan is unique and tailored to each patient. Still, the ultimate goal is to restore vision, a possibility we strive for in every case, and prevent further damage.