Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder affecting millions worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation, an estimated 537 million adults were living with diabetes in 2021, and this number is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030. This global health crisis has far-reaching implications, including a significant impact on vision.
Diabetes primarily affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Over time, persistently elevated blood sugar can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes, leading to a range of complications like cataracts, glaucoma, and, most commonly, diabetic retinopathy.
This condition arises when chronically high blood sugar levels damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. These damaged vessels can leak fluid, bleed, or grow abnormally, distorting vision and ultimately leading to blindness.
It’s a global concern, affecting approximately one-third of people with the disease. It’s estimated that over 145 million people globally have diabetic retinopathy, and this number is expected to rise to over 224 million by 2040.
Diabetic retinopathy typically progresses through several stages:
Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR): This early stage is characterized by microaneurysms (tiny bulges in blood vessel walls) that may leak fluid. As NPDR advances, more blood vessels become damaged, and retinal swelling (macular edema) can occur, blurring central vision.
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): In this advanced stage, the retina, starved of oxygen due to compromised blood flow, starts to grow new, abnormal blood vessels. These vessels are fragile and prone to bleeding, which can lead to severe vision loss and even retinal detachment.
Managing and treating diabetic retinopathy requires a multifaceted approach that combines lifestyle adjustments, meticulous medical management, and, in some cases, advanced therapies. The cornerstone of this approach lies in maintaining tight control of blood sugar levels. This involves careful monitoring, prescribed medication adherence, and a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels within a healthy range is equally crucial, as these factors can exacerbate the progression of retinopathy.
Early detection is also crucial. This is where technology like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) becomes invaluable.
OCT Scanning: A Powerful Tool for Managing Diabetic Eye Disease
OCT has revolutionized how we manage most eye conditions, including diabetic eye diseases. This non-invasive imaging technique provides a detailed cross-sectional view of the retina, allowing eye care specialists to visualize the layers and structures of the eye with clarity. In the context of diabetes, OCT workflow is particularly valuable for detecting early signs of diabetic retinopathy, even before noticeable vision changes occur. By identifying subtle abnormalities such as microaneurysms, macular edema, and retinal thickening, OCT enables timely intervention and can help prevent irreversible vision loss.
Furthermore, OCT plays a crucial role in monitoring disease progression and assessing the effectiveness of treatment. These detailed images help eye care specialists track changes in the retina over time and make informed decisions about the most appropriate treatment strategy, whether it be laser therapy, injections, or surgery.