Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, including the eyes. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common diabetes-related eye conditions and a leading cause of vision loss when left untreated. It occurs when high blood sugar damages the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for clear vision.
Early Symptoms Can Be Easy to Miss
One of the challenges of diabetic retinopathy is that it often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As the condition progresses, patients may experience:
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sudden vision changes
Because symptoms may be subtle at first, regular eye exams are essential for anyone living with diabetes.
Advanced, Personalized Treatment Options
At Retina Specialists of Tampa, Dr. Tarabishy, Dr. Dunn, and Dr. Schneider focus on early detection and individualized care. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s condition and may include:
- Advanced imaging to monitor retinal health
- Medications to reduce swelling or abnormal blood vessel growth
- Laser therapy to protect vision
These pain-free, in-office treatments are designed to slow disease progression and preserve vision.
A Proactive Approach to Long-Term Eye Health
Managing diabetic retinopathy requires ongoing care. By partnering closely with patients and coordinating with their primary care physicians, the team at Retina Specialists of Tampa helps patients protect their vision and maintain quality of life for years to come.
