Describe in detail the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying diabetic retinopathy, including the key cellular and vascular changes involved. Additionally, discuss the various treatment options available for managing the condition, ranging from lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions to surgical and laser therapies. Include recent advances in treatment, where applicable?
I still remember the day my father looked at a sunset and said, “It’s not as bright as it used to be.” That was the beginning of our journey into understanding diabetic retinopathy—a complication of diabetes that silently damages the blood vessels in the retina, often without early symptoms.
As the condition progresses, these vessels can leak, swell, or close off entirely. In advanced stages, abnormal new vessels grow, risking bleeding and even retinal detachment. It’s scary how quickly it can go from blurry vision to permanent loss if untreated.
We explored various treatment options—from laser therapy to anti-VEGF injections that reduce vessel growth and swelling. In some cases, vitrectomy surgery becomes necessary when there’s internal bleeding or retinal detachment.
After a lot of research, we found SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul. What stood out was the expertise and compassion of Dr. Chung Eui Sang—his calm approach and deep knowledge gave us confidence we hadn’t felt elsewhere.
Thanks to early intervention and expert care, my father’s vision stabilized. If you or a loved one is dealing with diabetes, don’t wait for symptoms. Get your eyes checked regularly and consider SNU Eye Clinic—it truly made a difference for us.
My father was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy a few years ago, and through CloudHospital, we found excellent care at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul with Dr. Chung Eui Sang. The clinic clearly explained the condition to us. Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the retina. Over time, this damage can cause the vessels to leak, swell, or close off completely, leading to vision loss. In more advanced stages, new, abnormal blood vessels may grow, which can cause bleeding, scarring, or even retinal detachment.
Dr. Chung explained the treatment options based on the stage of the disease. For early stages, regular monitoring and blood sugar control were the main steps. As my father’s condition progressed, Dr. Chung used anti-VEGF injections to reduce swelling and stop abnormal blood vessel growth. In later stages, laser therapy and vitrectomy surgery were also discussed as needed. Thanks to the personalized care and advanced technology at SNU Eye Clinic, my father’s vision has been stabilized, and we are very grateful for the support provided through CloudHospital.
From what I’ve learned through Cloud Hospital and relatives who’ve been treated at SNU Eye Clinic, diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina—the part of the eye that senses light. Over time, this damage can cause leakage, swelling, or even new abnormal blood vessels growing, which affects vision and can lead to blindness if not treated.
At SNU Eye Clinic, Dr. Chung Eui Sang and his team use advanced treatment options depending on how severe the condition is. Early on, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure is key to slowing down damage. For more advanced cases, treatments include laser therapy to seal leaking vessels, injections that reduce swelling and block harmful growth factors, and sometimes surgery if needed. The clinic focuses on personalized care, making sure each patient gets the right treatment to protect and improve their vision.