What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease caused by diabetes. When blood sugar stays high for too long, it damages the tiny blood vessels in the eye (retina). This can lead to blurred vision, vision loss, or even blindness if not treated.
NORMAL RETINA
Diabetic Retinopathy RETINA
The good news? With early check-ups and treatment, most vision problems can be prevented.
Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
There are two main stages:
Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
- Early Stage (NPDR): Blood vessels weaken and leak, causing swelling. You may notice blurred vision.
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
- Advanced Stage (PDR): New weak blood vessels grow, bleed, and can cause serious vision loss or even blindness.
- Who is at Risk?
You’re more likely to get diabetic retinopathy if you have:
Diabetes for many years
Poor blood sugar control
High blood pressure or high cholesterol
Kidney problems
Smoking habits
Pregnancy (for women with diabetes)
normal vision
vision with Diabetic Retinopathy
Common Warning Signs
- Blurry vision
- Dark spots or “floaters”
- Empty or dark areas in vision
- Faded colors
- Sudden vision loss
How It’s Detected
The only way to catch it early is with a diabetic eye screening:
- Dilated eye exam (pupil widened to check retina)
- Retina scan (OCT or fundus photo)
- Fluorescein angiography (special dye test, in some cases)
- Treatment Options
Blood sugar, pressure & cholesterol control
Laser treatment
Eye injections (Anti-VEGF)
Surgery (Vitrectomy)
Prevention is Possible
- Get a yearly diabetic eye screening
- Control blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
- Exercise, eat well, quit smoking
- Treat other health problems early
Key Takeaway
Diabetic retinopathy is serious but preventable. With regular eye check-ups and early treatment, you can protect your sight. If you have diabetes, visit your nearest Alpro OptiSaver today!
- FREE Vision Screening
- Enjoy a Retina Screening at RM30 (originally RM105)
