Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment at Premier Florida Vision
Protecting Your Vision from Diabetes-Related Eye Disease
Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common and serious eye complications associated with diabetes. It develops when high blood sugar levels damage the delicate blood vessels of the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that allows you to see clearly. Over time, these weakened vessels may leak fluid, swell, or close off entirely, depriving the retina of oxygen and leading to progressive vision loss.
At Premier Florida Vision, our board-certified ophthalmologists specialize in the early detection, monitoring, and treatment of diabetic eye disease. With advanced diagnostic imaging and individualized care plans, we help patients throughout Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, and South Florida protect and preserve their sight.
Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Persistent high blood sugar causes structural changes in the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina, resulting in leakage, swelling, or the formation of fragile new vessels (a process called neovascularization). If left untreated, these changes can lead to vision impairment or permanent blindness.
It is one of the leading causes of vision loss among working-age adults in the United States—but with early diagnosis and effective treatment, most patients can maintain functional vision for many years.
Common Signs and Symptoms
In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause any noticeable symptoms. As the disease advances, you may begin to experience:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Floating dark spots (“floaters”) or streaks in your vision
- Difficulty seeing clearly at night
- Faded or distorted colors
- Empty or dark areas in your field of vision
Because symptoms often develop only after significant damage has occurred, routine diabetic eye exams are essential. Early intervention is the most effective way to prevent irreversible vision loss.
How Diabetic Retinopathy Is Diagnosed
At Premier Florida Vision, we perform comprehensive dilated eye exams and use advanced retinal imaging to evaluate every layer of the eye. Our diagnostic tools may include:
Captures high-resolution images of the retina to document and track changes over time.
Provides cross-sectional scans to detect swelling or fluid accumulation in the retinal layers.
Uses a special dye to highlight abnormal or leaking blood vessels in the retina.
These technologies allow our specialists to identify early signs of diabetic retinopathy—often before you experience any vision changes—and to determine the exact stage and severity of the disease.
Advanced Treatment Options
While diabetic retinopathy cannot always be reversed, timely treatment can stabilize or even improve vision and significantly slow disease progression. Depending on your condition, we may recommend one or more of the following:
- Intravitreal Injections: Medications such as Avastin®, Eylea®, or Lucentis® are injected directly into the eye to block abnormal blood vessel growth (anti-VEGF therapy) and reduce retinal swelling.
- Laser Therapy: Focal or panretinal photocoagulation uses precision laser energy to seal leaking vessels, reduce edema, and prevent further damage.
- Vitrectomy Surgery: In advanced cases where bleeding or scar tissue interferes with vision, this microsurgical procedure removes the vitreous gel and restores clarity.
- Comprehensive Diabetes Management: Controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol through medication, diet, and exercise is essential to protect your eyes and overall health.
Because diabetic retinopathy is a chronic, progressive disease, consistent monitoring is key. Even if your vision seems normal, you should schedule a comprehensive diabetic eye exam at least once per year—or more often if recommended by your doctor.
At Premier Florida Vision, we provide ongoing care, from early detection to advanced retinal treatments, with a focus on patient education and prevention. Our goal is to help every patient maintain healthy eyes and clear vision for life.
Take Control of Your Eye Health Today
If you have diabetes, protecting your vision starts with regular eye care. Our retina specialists at Premier Florida Vision use cutting-edge technology and compassionate expertise to diagnose and treat diabetic retinopathy before it threatens your sight.
Call 954-792-6411 or visit premierfloridavision.com to schedule your diabetic eye exam today. Early detection can make all the difference in preserving your vision and quality of life.