Treatment for diabetic retinopathy aims to protect or improve vision while also controlling diabetes. Options range from careful monitoring to laser, injections, and surgery.
Medical and laser treatments
Early or mild changes may only need regular eye checks and better blood sugar control. As disease progresses, more active treatment becomes important.
- Anti-VEGF injections and steroids treat diabetic macular oedema
- Panretinal laser photocoagulation reduces the risk of bleeding from new vessels
- Focal or grid laser can seal specific leaking areas
- Systemic control of glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol supports eye therapy
Surgical options and ongoing care
Advanced disease with bleeding or scar tissue may require vitrectomy surgery. Long-term follow-up remains crucial even after successful treatment.
- Vitrectomy clears blood, removes traction, and can stabilise detachments
- Regular imaging with OCT and retinal photography tracks response
- Smoking cessation and diabetes education reduce future risk
- Prompt attention to new floaters, vision loss, or pain is vital
