Diabetes affects nearly every part of the body, but its impact on the eyes can be particularly serious. One of the most concerning complications is diabetic retinopathy, a progressive eye disease that, if left untreated, can lead to significant vision loss—even blindness.
At Retina Associates of Northwest New Jersey, Dr. Ronald Sachs and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating diabetic retinopathy at every stage. With decades of experience in retinal diseases, they provide advanced, patient-centered care designed to preserve and protect vision.
Diabetic retinopathy doesn’t happen overnight—it develops in stages, moving from nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) to the more severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Understanding these stages, recognizing symptoms early, and knowing what treatments are available can make a life-changing difference.
What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?
The root cause of diabetic retinopathy is chronic high blood sugar, which damages the small, delicate blood vessels in the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye responsible for sending visual signals to the brain.
As this damage worsens, blood vessels may weaken, swell, or leak, leading to retinal swelling and impaired vision. In advanced stages, the eye attempts to compensate by growing new blood vessels, but these are fragile and prone to bleeding, which can eventually lead to blindness.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone with diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy, certain factors increase the likelihood:
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- Duration of Diabetes – The longer a person has diabetes, the higher the risk.
- Blood Sugar Control – Unstable glucose levels accelerate blood vessel damage.
- High Blood Pressure – Increased pressure strains retinal blood vessels.
- High Cholesterol – Fatty deposits in the retina worsen the condition.
- Smoking – Reduces oxygen supply to the eyes, worsening damage.
- Pregnancy – Hormonal changes in diabetic women can accelerate retinopathy.
Regular eye exams are crucial—many people don’t experience noticeable symptoms until the disease is advanced. Speak to our eye doctor today to learn more.
The Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR): The Early Stage
In NPDR, small balloon-like swellings form in retinal blood vessels, which may leak fluid or blood, leading to swelling and vision problems. Two key complications may develop:
- Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) – Fluid buildup in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision, causing blurriness or distortion.
- Macular Ischemia – Small blood vessels in the macula close, cutting off its blood supply and leading to central vision loss.
Symptoms of Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)
NPDR can develop silently, but when symptoms appear, they may include:
- Blurred vision
- Mild vision loss
- Dark spots or floaters
- Difficulty seeing in dim light
Progression of Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)
NPDR can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe, each requiring different levels of monitoring:
- Mild NPDR – Minor damage; annual eye exams recommended.
- Moderate NPDR – Increased vessel damage, higher risk of macular edema; exams every 6–8 months.
- Severe NPDR – Widespread retinal damage with a 50% chance of progressing to PDR within a year; exams every 3–4 months and possible referral to a retina specialist.
Early detection is critical—keeping blood sugar stable can slow NPDR’s progression.
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR): The Advanced Stage
PDR is the most serious form of diabetic retinopathy. In response to oxygen deprivation, the retina attempts to grow new blood vessels (neovascularization), but these vessels are fragile and prone to severe bleeding.
Complications of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)
- Vitreous Hemorrhage – Bleeding into the gel-like center of the eye, leading to sudden vision loss or a sudden increase in floaters.
- Retinal Detachment – Scar tissue from abnormal blood vessels can pull the retina away from its normal position, leading to permanent vision loss.
Symptoms of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)
Unlike NPDR, PDR is more likely to cause noticeable vision problems:
- Sudden vision loss
- A dramatic increase in floaters
- Flashes of light (a possible sign of retinal detachment)
- Dark or empty spots in vision
PDR requires immediate treatment to prevent irreversible blindness.
How Diabetic Retinopathy is Diagnosed and Treated in Morristown, Rockaway & Hackettstown
At Retina Associates of Northwest New Jersey, we use state-of-the-art technology to accurately diagnose and effectively treat diabetic retinopathy.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): High-resolution imaging to detect retinal swelling and damage.
- Fluorescein & Indocyanine Green Angiography: A safe dye highlights retinal blood vessels, helping pinpoint abnormal blood flow.
- Fundus Photography: High-resolution images to monitor disease progression over time.
- Ocular Ultrasound: Used when bleeding obscures retinal visibility, providing a clear view of hidden complications.
Targeted Treatment Options
Our approach is tailored to each patient’s needs, with treatments designed to preserve vision and prevent further damage:
- Intravitreal Injections: Medications injected directly into the eye to reduce swelling and abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Retinal Laser Photocoagulation: A laser is used to seal leaking blood vessels and stabilize vision.
- Photodynamic Therapy: A light-activated treatment that selectively targets abnormal blood vessels.
Each treatment is designed to slow the disease’s progression and protect eyesight as much as possible.
Why Early Detection is Critical
Because diabetic retinopathy often progresses without early symptoms, annual comprehensive eye exams are the best way to detect changes before they cause serious vision loss.
Expert Care from a Leader in Retinal Disease Treatment
Dr. Ronald Sachs and his team at Retina Associates of Northwest New Jersey are dedicated to providing the most advanced, compassionate care for diabetic retinopathy. With four convenient locations, they offer specialized retinal care throughout the region.
If you or someone you love has diabetes, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Protect your vision—schedule a comprehensive retina exam today.