2023-07-29 06:05:00
Certain Diseases and Unhealthy Lifestyle Increase the Risk of Retinal Diseases, Here’s What You Can Do About It
A disease of the retina can have serious consequences, including the risk of blindness if left untreated. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the risks and prevent damage.
The retina, located at the back of the eyeball, plays a crucial role in our vision. It receives visual stimuli and converts them into electrical signals that are then sent to the brain for processing. The macula and fovea, which are the most important parts of the retina, enable us to see with sharpness and detail.
One of the most alarming retinal conditions is retinal detachment. This occurs when the retina becomes detached from the back of the eye, potentially leading to blindness if not promptly treated by an ophthalmologist. Symptoms of retinal detachment include distorted vision, changes in the field of vision, flashes of light, and the appearance of black dots or flakes.
There are several medical conditions that increase the risk of retinal damage, including diabetes mellitus, severe myopia, and eye vein thrombosis. Diabetes mellitus, in particular, is considered a significant risk factor for damage to the retina. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to brittle blood vessels in the retina, resulting in vessel bulges, bleeding, and the formation of deposits that can block blood flow. These changes often go unnoticed until the advanced stages of the disease, when symptoms such as impaired vision, distorted or blurred vision, and reading difficulties become apparent. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to the growth of new malformed blood vessels and eventually retinal detachment, potentially causing severe vision impairment or blindness.
Regular check-ups and eye examinations are crucial for diabetic patients to detect any retinal changes early on. Although controlling blood sugar levels can reduce the risk, it doesn’t guarantee prevention of retinal damage. Dr. Georg Spital, a retina expert, emphasizes the importance of ophthalmological examinations with pupil dilation at least once a year for most diabetic patients. Additionally, shorter-term checks are recommended for those with known retinal changes or during special situations that increase the risk of diabetic retinal damage.
The good news is that there are now many treatment options available for diabetic retinopathy, and visual impairment can often be avoided with prompt intervention. It’s essential for individuals with diabetes to prioritize their eye health and seek regular medical attention to protect their vision.
In conclusion, certain diseases and an unhealthy lifestyle can increase the risk of retinal diseases. However, taking proactive measures, such as regular eye check-ups and maintaining good blood sugar control for diabetics, can help minimize these risks and prevent potential damage to the retina.]
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