Diabetic Retinopathy and Hypertension

Many diseases, such as uncontrolled, long-term diabetes and hypertension, can cause significant complications that can damage the optic nerve. Therefore, early recognition and treatment of retinal damage is vital.

To assess the retinal condition, tests such as fundus fluorescein angiography may be performed first. These tests help to detect potential problems by examining the condition of the retina and retinal vessels in detail. Based on the results of the angiography, treatment for diabetes damage to the optic nerve, such as diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal diseases is determined.

Most commonly, argon laser photocoagulation therapy is used to treat retinal diseases. This treatment helps prevent or stop vision loss by sealing abnormal vessels or repairing damaged areas on the retina. Argon laser photocoagulation therapy is an effective way to reduce the risk of patients going blind.

Regular check-ups are of great importance, especially in diabetic patients. Checking the retinal condition at least every 6 months and taking necessary precautions is vital for the protection of visual health. These checks provide an important opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy, which is characterized by changes in the blood vessels in the nerve layer that allows the retina to perceive light, is an important eye disease that is frequently seen in diabetic patients. This disease develops as a result of long-term and uncontrolled course of diabetes.

One of the main symptoms of diabetic retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels of the retina, leading to leakage of fluid or blood. This can lead to the formation of hard brush-like branches and scar tissue in the retina. Damaged blood vessels can cause the retina to send distorted images to the brain and affect visual function.

The risk of diabetic retinopathy is directly related to the duration of diabetes. The risk of developing retinopathy in a person with diabetes can be as high as 80% after 15 years of diabetes. Also, in cases of diabetes in children, retinopathy may start at a younger age.

Untreated diabetics have a 25 times higher risk of blindness than a normal individual. Therefore, it is very important to recognize and treat diabetic retinopathy early. It is critical for diabetic patients to have regular eye examinations and monitor the signs of retinopathy to maintain visual health.

How is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?

Laser therapy is still the most effective method of stopping bleeding in diabetic retinopathy. Small laser pulses are used to induce macular edema and block the bleeding vessels. The laser is also used on the outer parts of the retina to prevent the formation of new vessels. This method is performed on an outpatient basis and does not cause any pain in the eye.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related Macular Degeneration is a degenerative disease that develops as a result of aging in the central area of the eye called the macula. The macula is the center of the retina layer, the area where vision is clearest, and is vital for clear vision, color perception and detailed vision. The exact causes are unknown, but factors such as aging, genetic factors, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and exposure to sunlight are thought to play a role.

How is Macular Degeneration Treated?

In the treatment of dry macular degeneration, supportive methods such as vision aids are often used. However, there is currently no effective treatment for this type of degeneration. Some research suggests that certain vitamin supplements (especially antioxidants and zinc) may slow the progression of the disease.

Laser treatment can be applied in early age-related macular degeneration. With this treatment, bleeding vessels are blocked and leakage is prevented. However, this method does not cure the degeneration, it can only slow down the progression of vision loss. 

The most important thing for macular degeneration is early detection and regular eye examinations. It is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor and adopt healthy lifestyle habits to maintain your eye health.