Diabetic eye disease (diabetic retinopathy)

Overview

Good blood sugar and blood pressure control slow it.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Usually no symptoms
• High blood sugar or diabetes

Less common

• Blurry vision
• Floaters

Look up a symptom: Blurry vision

When to get medical care

Causes

High blood sugar.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diabetes

Diagnosis

An eye exam finds it.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Dilated exam:
• Retina photos:

Treatment

Protect your eyes.

Self-care

• Control blood sugar
• Control blood pressure
• Don't smoke

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an optometrist or ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

Living with it

• Check your blood sugar as your care team advises.
• Check your feet every day for cuts or sores.
• Wear a medical ID and carry a fast sugar, like glucose tabs.
• Get a yearly eye exam and kidney test.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Diabetes Association: Help line 1-800-342-2383, education, and local programs.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Treatment preserves vision.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Diabetic eye disease (diabetic retinopathy)