Diabetes can lead to other serious complications, including diabetic retinopathyAs we celebrate World Diabetes Day (Nov. 14), we look at the prevalence of the said disease in the Philippines. Data from the International Diabetes Foundation suggests that an estimated 4.3 million Filipinos are diagnosed with diabetes, accounting for about 7.5% of the adult Filipino population. Adding to that figure is another 2.8 million who remain undiagnosed.

While it’s fairly common to hear about increased blood sugar levels among these patients, diabetes can lead to other serious complications, such as stroke, heart attack or kidney failure. The disease inevitably affects the eyes as well.

Figures published in the Philippine Journal of Ophthalmology note that the incidence of diabetic retinopathy among individuals with diabetes was found to be approximately 28.22%. Diabetic retinopathy, as a matter of fact, was found to be the top cause of prevent able blindness in Region 3 alone.

“Diabetic retinopathy happens when you have elevated and poorly controlled blood sugar,” explains Asian Eye Institute retina and vitreous disease specialist Dr. Amadeo Veloso Jr. “The blood vessels in the retina get blocked, so the blood supply is cut off.”

The retina is the back part of the eye which senses light and sends images to the brain. And in order to function, it needs a continuous supply of blood. “Without the blood supply, the eye attempts to grow new blood vessels that are weak and leak easily. This is when patients start to experience eye problems,” Veloso adds.

This condition often affects both eyes. Unfortunately, most patients tend to be unaware of diabetic retinopathy until more troubling symptoms persist. These include seeing dark strings floating across vision (floaters), blurred vision, poor night vision or the inability to see colors. If left untreated, it can lead to visual impairment or even blindness.

Treatments available in the ophthalmology industry don’t cure diabetic retinopathy per se. Still, they delay the condition’s progression and ultimately prevent permanent blindness altogether. “The treatment that will be done depends on the extent of the patient’s eye condition. They may undergo laser surgery, injection therapy or vitrectomy,” notes Veloso.

Of all interventions, Veloso emphasizes that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best way to keep patients from going blind and other complications of diabetes. “Prevention is better than cure, so make it a habit to control your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels, eat healthy, exercise regularly and avoid smoking.”

The doctor recommends that diabetics undergo comprehensive eye exams every six months to ensure that their eye health is in good shape.

“It is important to check the retina of the patient, so we can determine if the patient’s vision has been affected by diabetes and what treatment can be done to prevent complications like retinal detachment, glaucoma or blindness.”

Worried about diabetic retinopathy? Consult with experts at Asian Eye Institute. Call 8- 898-2020 or email eyehelp@ asianeyeinstitute.com. You may schedule your appointment at https://asianeyeinstitute.com/book-now/.

Story by: Aizel Maquiot