What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a chronic complication of diabetes affecting the eyes. This condition is a result of prolonged damage caused to the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the eye internally.
Diabetic retinopathy is a widespread concern, particularly among individuals living with diabetes. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients with uncontrolled blood sugar levels for a longer period can develop this eye condition. Diagnosing diabetes on time and seeking proper treatment under the guidance of your healthcare provider is of utmost importance. Making appropriate changes to your lifestyle and opting for Ayurvedic medicine for diabetes can also be of significant help in managing complications of diabetic retinopathy.
As per the statistics:
- Around 3 million people in India aged 40 years and older are suffering from vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (VTDR).
- Hypertension poses a considerable risk factor for the onset and advancement of DR in type 2 diabetic patients.
- The duration of diabetes emerges as the strongest predictor for the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy.
- Almost all cases progress to severe Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) 25 years after the onset of diabetes.
- There is a clear correlation between the age at which diabetes develops and the severity of Diabetic Retinopathy.
Diabetic Retinopathy Classification
Diabetic retinopathy can be broadly categorized into two main types, each with distinct characteristics and implications for vision health. Let's explore these two types in detail:
Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)
Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, often referred to as NPDR, is the initial stage of diabetic retinopathy. NPDR is also commonly referred to as simple diabetic retinopathy or background diabetic retinopathy.
NPDR earns its label of "non-proliferative" due to the inability of the eye to generate new blood vessels in the initial phases of Diabetic Retinopathy. In these early stages, damaged blood vessels often result in the leakage of blood and fluids into the eye. In certain instances, the central area of the eye's retina, known as the macula, experiences swelling, leading to a condition termed "macular edema." Macular edema needs attention and, if necessary, treatment to prevent vision impairment.
NPDR presents in varying degrees, categorized as mild, moderate, and severe. Progression through subsequent stages of NPDR may advance to the fourth stage identified as "Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy."
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy represents a more severe and advanced stage of the condition. It is often associated with noticeable symptoms and a greater risk to vision.
According to a study, Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR) manifested, on average, after 11 years of diabetes diagnosis in type 2 diabetic patients. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to the obstruction of blood vessels supplying nourishment to the retina. In response, the body creates new blood vessels. But these new vessels might develop abnormally or might grow in the center of the eye. This abnormal vascular growth can have serious consequences for vision.
Timely checkups and undergoing treatment are important to manage chronic conditions associated with diabetes. Combining Ayurvedic medicine for sugar control as an add-on therapy could offer a diverse approach to diabetes management.
Takeaway
- Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication linked to diabetes. It causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina and impacts individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
- Approximately 3 million Indians aged 40 and above suffer from vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (VTDR).
- The duration of diabetes stands as the primary predictor for diabetic retinopathy advancement.
- A more holistic approach encompasses a wide array of dietary suggestions, positive lifestyle adjustments, and herbal remedies, including Ayurvedic tablets for diabetes, which have the potential to impact blood sugar levels.
- Age at the onset of diabetes correlates with the severity of diabetic retinopathy.
- Diabetic retinopathy can be classified into Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR) and Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR).
- NPDR is the initial stage that involves damaged vessels, potential leakage, and macular edema.
- PDR is more severe and involves abnormal vascular growth posing higher risks to vision.
- There is a critical need for individuals with diabetes to be vigilant about their eye health.
- Ayurveda for diabetes with conventional healthcare could provide a multifaceted approach to diabetes management.
- Early detection and proper management can significantly reduce the risk of vision impairment caused by diabetic retinopathy.