Fact Sheet



Fact Sheet

Eye Condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

Description of Condition: Series of prgressive retinal changes accompanying long-standing diabetes mellitus.

Parts of Visual System Affected: Retina

Effects of the Visual System: Deterioration/hemorrhaging of blood vessels of the retina. Fluctuating vision, loss of color vision or visual field. May cause floaters, blind spots, or blurred vision during the early stages of the disease. Decreased visual acuity and retinal detachment are also possible during the progression of this eye disease. May also lead to glaucoma and cataracts.

Treatments: Control of blood sugar levels and a healthy controlled diet. Laser treatment may be an option, but may lead to other side effects of the retina.

Onset Type & Prognosis: Variations in acuity is common. There is no definite onset type, but it is a progressive condition. Vision can improve, but will never been the same as before hemorrhaging occurred.

Functional Implications of Condition: This depends on the location of the hemorrhages and the amount of retinal hypoxia. It could range from central vision loss to mild peripheral vision loss. Glare should be limited for these patients. Neuropathy may also occur in the hands and feet of diabetic clients.

References

American Optometric Association (2008). Diabetic Retinopathy. Retrieved July 1, 2008, from American Optometric Associate website

Cassin, B., & Rubin, M.L. (Ed.) (2006). Dictionary of Eye Terminology (5th ed). Gainsville, FL: Triad

Jose, R. (Ed.) (2004). Understanding Low Vision. New York, NY: AFB Press

Mayo Clinic Staff (2008). Diabetic Retinopathy. Retrieved July 1, 2008, from website

McKinney, B (2004). Program in Low Vision Therapy. Houston, TX: Region 4 Education Service Center

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