Diabetic Retinopathy

Protect your sight. Manage your diabetes, preserve your vision.

Diabetic Retinopathy is an eye condition caused by damage to the small blood vessels in the retina due to long-term uncontrolled diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can weaken or block these vessels, leading to vision loss or even blindness if left untreated.

This condition often develops gradually and may not show symptoms in the early stages, which makes regular eye screening essential for all individuals with diabetes.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

  1. Mild Non-Proliferative Retinopathy
    Small bulges form in retinal blood vessels. No symptoms yet.

  2. Moderate to Severe Non-Proliferative Retinopathy
    Vessels become more blocked, affecting blood flow to the retina.

  3. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
    New abnormal blood vessels form, which are fragile and can bleed into the eye. This is the most advanced and vision-threatening stage.

  4. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)
    Fluid builds up in the macula (central retina), causing blurred or distorted vision.

Symptoms

  • Blurred or fluctuating vision

  • Dark spots or floaters

  • Difficulty seeing at night

  • Impaired color vision

  • Sudden loss of vision (in advanced stages)

Who is At Risk?

  • People with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes

  • Poor blood sugar or blood pressure control

  • Diabetes duration over 5 years

  • Smokers and those with high cholesterol

  • Pregnant women with gestational diabetes

Diagnosis at ESC Kuching

At Eye Specialist Centre Kuching, we use advanced diagnostic tools to detect and monitor diabetic retinopathy, such as:

  • Ultra-Wide Field Fundus Photography

  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

  • Fluorescein angiography (if needed)

Our Treatment Approach

Treatment depends on the stage of the disease and may include:

  • Laser Photocoagulation
    To seal leaking vessels and prevent further damage.

  • Anti-VEGF Injections
    To reduce swelling and slow vessel growth in the retina.

  • Vitrectomy Surgery
    For severe bleeding or scar tissue in advanced cases.

  • Ongoing Monitoring & Education
    Regular follow-ups and advice on diabetes control to prevent progression.

Don’t Wait Until Vision Loss Happens

Diabetic Retinopathy can be managed — but early detection is critical.

WhatsApp us at 017-299 8233 or visit Eye Specialist Centre Kuching to schedule your eye screening today.