Diabetic Retinopathy


What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages blood vessels inside the retina at the back of the eye. This damage can cause leakage of blood and/or fluid in the macula (macula oedema), abnormal blood vessel growth and restricted blood supply to the retina. People with Type 1, Type 2 or gestational (during pregnancy) diabetes are at risk.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

Initially, you may not notice changes in vision even though you may have the early stages of diabetic retinopathy.  However, as the diseases progresses you may start to notice:

  • General reduction/blurriness in vision, one or both eyes
  • Increased or new onset of floaters
  • Having a dark or empty spot in part of your overall visual field
  • Difficulty seeing well at night

Treatment options for Diabetic Retinopathy

Depending on the severity of diabetic retinopathy, different treatment options are available.

  • Retinal laser therapy can be performed to shrink the abnormal blood vessel growth and prevent further bleeding or leaking
  • Anti-VEGF injections to the eye to reduce macula oedema by blocking the production of the VEGF protein by the retina, thereby stopping the cycle abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage
  • Vitrectomy surgery if there is severe bleeding in the retina whereby the ophthalmologist will remove the vitreous gel (jelly-like substance that fills your eye) which is being clouded by blood

 

For Patients

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To see one of our surgeons you will need a referral.
Please visit your local General Practitioner or Optometrist. Once you have the referral please get in touch with us to book your appointment.

For Referrers

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Thank you kindly for your referral.
Please provide your patient with a written referral or send an electronic referral to us via our web form. Please contact us for details.

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Alternatively you can send a letter (via mail or fax). Please include the reason for the referral and results of any diagnostic testing that was performed. A list of current medications and pertinent medical history is also useful if known.