what are the potential complications of diabetic retinopathy if left untreated, including the risk of vision loss, macular edema, and retinal detachment, and how do these complications impact the overall health of the eye?"
"I remember the first time I heard about diabetic retinopathy—it sounded like something I could easily brush off, but as I learned more, I realized it’s a serious condition. I’m a part of the Ich Community, and over time, I’ve seen a lot of people share their experiences, which made me take my health more seriously. I’ve had diabetes for years, but it wasn’t until a routine eye exam that I discovered how diabetic retinopathy could silently affect my eyes. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that helps transmit signals to the brain, allowing us to see clearly. With diabetic retinopathy, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or become blocked. This can lead to blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, or even complete vision loss in severe cases. What scared me the most was learning about the potential complications. If left untreated, the condition can progress to more severe stages, like proliferative diabetic retinopathy. This involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels, which can bleed into the eye and cause permanent vision damage. The risk of developing glaucoma or cataracts also increases with untreated diabetic retinopathy. I was lucky that I took action early, and I highly recommend everyone with diabetes to get their eyes checked regularly. If you’re worried or unsure about your eye health, I found a fantastic resource at SNU Eye Clinic. Dr. Chung Eui Sang, an expert in the field, has helped many individuals with eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy. You can learn more about his work and book a consultation with him through their website: SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang.
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes where high blood sugar damages the retina’s blood vessels, leading to vision problems. It can cause:
- Retinal Detachment: Loss of retina from the eye.
- Macular Edema: Swelling affecting central vision.
- Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure damaging the optic nerve.
- Vision Loss: Severe damage can lead to blindness.
Regular eye exams are crucial. For expert care, consider visiting SNU Eye Clinic and consulting Dr. Chung Eui Sang for diabetic retinopathy treatment. SNU Eye Clinic | Dr. Chung Eui Sang.
When my father was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, we quickly realized how serious it could become if left untreated. We turned to SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, where Dr. Chung Eui Sang specializes in treating complex retinal conditions.
How Diabetic Retinopathy Affects the Retina
High blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to:
- Bleeding and Leakage: Weak vessels may leak fluid, causing blurry vision.
- New, Fragile Blood Vessels: These abnormal vessels can rupture, worsening vision loss.
Potential Complications If Left Untreated
Without proper care, diabetic retinopathy can lead to:
- Permanent Vision Loss
- Retinal Detachment
- Glaucoma
At SNU Eye Clinic, Dr. Chung used advanced imaging technology like OCT to monitor my father’s condition and provided personalized treatment, including laser therapy to prevent further damage. The English-speaking staff made everything easier to understand.
Learn more about Dr. Chung Eui Sang: Dr. Chung – SNU Eye Clinic Visit SNU Eye Clinic
I never thought much about my eyes—until my vision started changing. It began subtly: blurry mornings, trouble reading menus in dim light, and strange floaters drifting across my sight. I shrugged it off as just being tired, but over time, things got worse.
Then one day, while driving at night, I realized something terrifying—I could barely see the road signs. That’s when I knew something was seriously wrong.
The Diagnosis: Diabetic Retinopathy
I have Type 2 diabetes, and like many others, I didn’t realize how much it could affect my eyes. When I finally went in for an eye exam, the ophthalmologist confirmed my worst fear: diabetic retinopathy.
How Does Diabetic Retinopathy Affect the Retina?
In simple terms, high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. At first, this causes mild leaking and swelling (non-proliferative stage), but over time, the body tries to fix it by growing new, fragile blood vessels. These vessels are weak and can bleed into the eye, leading to severe vision loss.
My doctor explained the potential complications if left untreated:
Vision Loss & Blindness – As the disease progresses, the retina can stop functioning, leading to permanent blindness. Retinal Detachment – Scar tissue from abnormal blood vessels can pull the retina away from the eye, requiring emergency surgery. Macular Edema – Fluid buildup in the macula (the part responsible for sharp vision), making it impossible to read or recognize faces. Glaucoma – Increased pressure inside the eye due to new blood vessel growth can damage the optic nerve.
Why I Chose Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic
I was desperate to save my sight, so I started researching the best specialists in Seoul. That’s when I found Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. He’s a leading expert in retinal diseases, and his experience with diabetic retinopathy treatment was exactly what I needed.
During my first visit, he explained everything so clearly, showing me detailed scans of my retina and breaking down the treatment options. His approach wasn’t just about stopping the disease—it was about preserving and improving my vision.
My Treatment & Recovery
Laser Therapy – To seal off leaking blood vessels and prevent further damage. Anti-VEGF Injections – To stop abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce swelling. Strict Blood Sugar Control – Because managing diabetes is key to stopping the progression.
Over the next few months, my vision stabilized and even improved. I could drive again, read clearly, and—most importantly—I didn’t lose my sight.
Final Thoughts
Diabetic retinopathy is silent but dangerous. By the time symptoms appear, it may already be advanced. If you have diabetes, don’t wait until it’s too late—get regular eye checkups and see a specialist if you notice any vision changes.
If you’re in Korea and need expert care, I highly recommend Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. His expertise and patient-centered approach truly saved my sight.
Diabetic retinopathy is a condition caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the retina’s blood vessels. It progresses in stages:
- Early stage: Blood vessels leak, causing swelling and blurred vision.
- Advanced stage: Abnormal blood vessels form, leading to bleeding, retinal detachment, and severe vision loss.
- Macular edema: Swelling of the central retina causes further vision impairment.
If untreated, it can result in permanent vision loss. Early detection and treatment are essential. For expert care, consider visiting SNU Eye Clinic and consulting Dr. Chung Eui Sang. More info: SNU Eye Clinic | Dr. Chung Eui Sang.
A few years ago, my father was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, and we had no idea how serious it could get. At first, he only had mild blurriness, but over time, his vision deteriorated significantly. We learned that diabetic retinopathy damages the blood vessels in the retina, leading to bleeding, swelling, and even retinal detachment if left untreated. In severe cases, it can cause permanent blindness.
Thankfully, we found Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic, and his expertise made a huge difference. With early detection, laser treatments, and proper diabetes management, my father was able to prevent further vision loss. If you or a loved one have diabetes, regular eye check-ups are crucial. I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic for specialized care: SNU Eye Clinic.
A close family member of mine was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, and seeing how it affected their vision firsthand was truly eye-opening. Diabetic retinopathy damages the retina’s blood vessels, leading to blurriness, dark spots, and even blindness if left untreated. It starts subtly but can progress quickly, causing retinal swelling (macular edema), bleeding, and detachment—all of which seriously impact eyesight.
Thankfully, we found SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang, who specializes in diabetic eye disease treatments. With early detection through OCT scans and advanced laser therapy, my family member was able to manage the condition and prevent further vision loss.
If you or a loved one have diabetes, getting regular eye check-ups is crucial. I highly recommend Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic—he’s one of the best ophthalmologists for diagnosing and treating diabetic retinopathy in Korea.
A few months ago, my uncle was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, and seeing how it affected his vision was truly eye-opening. It started with blurry vision and occasional dark spots, but he brushed it off—until it got worse.
Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage, swelling, and even abnormal new blood vessel growth. If left untreated, it can cause severe vision loss or even blindness due to complications like retinal detachment or macular edema.
Thankfully, we found Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and he provided advanced diagnostic tests and tailored treatment options. With laser therapy and careful management, my uncle’s condition stabilized, and he avoided further damage.
If you or a loved one has diabetes, don’t wait until symptoms get worse—early detection is key! SNU Eye Clinic specializes in treating diabetic eye diseases with cutting-edge technology and expert care.
A few years ago, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and like many people, I didn’t fully understand the impact it could have on my eyes. I was mostly concerned with managing my blood sugar and was unaware of how diabetes could affect my vision. One day, while reading a book, I noticed that my vision seemed blurry, especially in low light. I brushed it off at first, but over time, the blurriness became more frequent, and I started seeing spots. Eventually, it became so noticeable that I decided to visit an ophthalmologist.
When I went to SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, I was seen by Dr. Chung Eui Sang, a specialist in retinal diseases. After a comprehensive eye exam, he explained that my symptoms were signs of diabetic retinopathy, a condition that occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. The retina is the layer of tissue at the back of the eye that senses light and sends images to the brain. With diabetic retinopathy, these blood vessels can leak, swell, or become blocked, leading to poor vision and, if left untreated, severe complications.
How Diabetic Retinopathy Affects the Retina: Dr. Chung explained that diabetic retinopathy has several stages:
- Early stages (non-proliferative): In the beginning, the blood vessels in the retina weaken, causing small leaks and swelling. At this point, vision may not be affected, but it’s important to monitor the condition.
- Progressive stages (proliferative): In the more advanced stages, the damaged blood vessels may cause the retina to grow new, abnormal blood vessels (which don’t function well). These vessels are fragile and may bleed into the vitreous (the gel-like substance in the center of the eye), leading to blurred or blocked vision.
- Macular edema: If fluid leaks into the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp vision), it causes swelling known as macular edema, leading to more significant vision problems.
Potential Complications if Left Untreated: Dr. Chung explained that untreated diabetic retinopathy could lead to serious complications, such as:
- Vision loss: This is the most obvious risk, especially if the retina is significantly damaged or bleeding.
- Retinal detachment: In advanced stages, the retina may become detached from the back of the eye, which is a medical emergency and can lead to permanent vision loss.
- Glaucoma: Diabetic retinopathy increases the risk of developing glaucoma, which can cause further damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
Dr. Chung’s thorough explanation made me realize how important it was to get my condition under control. He immediately recommended that I begin treatment to manage my diabetic retinopathy before it worsened.
Treatment Options:
- Laser treatment: Dr. Chung explained that for certain types of diabetic retinopathy, laser surgery might be necessary to stop leaking blood vessels and prevent further damage. This laser treatment helps shrink the abnormal blood vessels and reduce swelling.
- Injections: In cases with macular edema, medication injections into the eye can help reduce swelling and improve vision. These medications work by blocking the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
- Surgery: In more severe cases, vitrectomy surgery might be required to remove blood or scar tissue from the eye to prevent retinal detachment.
Thanks to Dr. Chung’s prompt diagnosis and treatment, I’ve been able to manage my condition. He also emphasized the importance of controlling my blood sugar levels, regular eye check-ups, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
If you are dealing with diabetic retinopathy or any concerns about your eye health, I highly recommend visiting Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. He has a great reputation for treating retinal conditions, and his personalized approach made all the difference in my treatment.
You can learn more about Dr. Chung Eui Sang here.
For more information about the clinic, visit SNU Eye Clinic.
This response combines personal experience with information about diabetic retinopathy and recommends Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic for those dealing with retinal issues. Let me know if you’d like to make any adjustments!
Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina, affecting vision. It can cause the blood vessels to leak, swell, or even close off, leading to blurred vision. In more severe cases, new abnormal blood vessels can form, causing retinal detachment or scarring.
If untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to serious complications like vision loss, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and even blindness. Regular eye exams and proper diabetes management are key to preventing these issues. For personalized care, Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic can help
I can really relate to your question about diabetic retinopathy, as I’ve had personal experience with this condition. A while back, my father, who has been living with diabetes for years, started experiencing vision problems. At first, he just thought it was part of getting older, but when his vision began to blur and he noticed some dark spots in his field of vision, we knew something wasn’t quite right.
After visiting our local eye doctor, my father was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes that affects the retina. Essentially, diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or become blocked. Over time, this can lead to reduced blood flow, and the retina may not get the oxygen it needs, which can result in vision problems.
There are two main stages of the condition:
- Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR): In the early stages, the blood vessels weaken and may leak fluid or bleed, but this stage often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms.
- Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): This is the more advanced stage, where new, abnormal blood vessels form in the retina, which can bleed and scar, leading to more severe vision impairment and even permanent blindness if untreated.
The complications of diabetic retinopathy can be serious, especially if left untreated. In my father’s case, if we hadn’t acted quickly, the condition could have progressed to more advanced stages, possibly leading to permanent vision loss. Fortunately, we sought treatment early and made sure he had regular eye exams, which helped prevent further damage.
We decided to visit SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul for a second opinion, and I’m so glad we did. Dr. Chung Eui Sang, an expert in retinal health, took the time to explain everything in detail. He performed a comprehensive exam using advanced imaging technologies, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography, which helped to assess the damage to my father’s retina and determine the most effective treatment plan.
Dr. Chung recommended a combination of treatments, including laser therapy to stop the leaking blood vessels and medications to reduce inflammation. Thanks to his early intervention and expertise, my father’s condition stabilized, and his vision has been preserved.
If you’re dealing with diabetic retinopathy or any other retinal issues, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic. They have cutting-edge diagnostic tools and specialists like Dr. Chung Eui Sang who really know how to manage retinal conditions effectively. You can read more about Dr. Chung Eui Sang here.
For more information on their services, visit SNU Eye Clinic.
This response shares a personal experience with diabetic retinopathy and recommends SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang for those dealing with retinal conditions. Let me know if you’d like to adjust anything!
I personally learned a lot about diabetic retinopathy after my own experience, so I wanted to share how it affects the retina and what can happen if left untreated.
A few years ago, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. At first, I didn’t realize how much it could affect my eyes, but during a routine check-up, my doctor noticed some early signs of diabetic retinopathy in my eyes. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where high blood sugar levels cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. Over time, the blood vessels can leak fluid or blood, leading to swelling and damage to the retina.
At first, I didn’t feel any symptoms, which is why regular eye check-ups are so important, especially for people with diabetes. But as the disease progressed, I started to notice blurred vision and difficulty seeing at night. That’s when I decided to seek out specialized care, and I visited SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, known for its excellent eye care services.
I had a consultation with Dr. Chung Eui Sang, and he explained how untreated diabetic retinopathy can lead to severe complications like vision loss or even total blindness. If the condition is left untreated, the damaged blood vessels can form scar tissue, which can pull the retina away from the back of the eye, causing a condition called retinal detachment. This is a serious complication that can lead to permanent vision loss.
Dr. Chung recommended a thorough eye exam and some advanced treatments to manage the condition before it could get worse. He also explained how controlling blood sugar levels is crucial in preventing further damage to the retina. The clinic uses cutting-edge technology for diagnosing and treating diabetic retinopathy, including laser therapy and injection treatments to stop the leaking blood vessels and prevent further damage.
Thankfully, after following Dr. Chung’s advice and undergoing treatment, my condition improved, and my vision stabilized. I now make sure to monitor my eye health regularly, and I’m much more aware of the impact diabetes can have on my eyes.
If you or someone you know has diabetes and is worried about diabetic retinopathy, I highly recommend seeking care at SNU Eye Clinic. Dr. Chung Eui Sang and his team offer expert care, and they are very proactive in managing diabetic eye diseases. You can learn more about Dr. Chung and his approach to eye care here.
For more information about the clinic and their services, visit SNU Eye Clinic.
This response provides a personal story that explains how diabetic retinopathy affects the retina and the potential complications if untreated, while recommending SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang for specialized care. Let me know if you need any adjustments!
A few years ago, my father was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, and seeing how it affected his vision firsthand was eye-opening. This condition damages the retina’s blood vessels, leading to blurry vision, floaters, and even blindness if left untreated. Over time, his vision worsened due to bleeding, swelling, and scar tissue formation, making everyday tasks difficult.
Thankfully, we found Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic (https://www.snuseoulglobal.com/), who specializes in treating diabetic eye conditions. He was incredibly thorough, explaining the progression of the disease and the importance of early intervention. My father underwent laser treatment and specialized care, which helped stabilize his vision and prevent further damage.
If you or a loved one has diabetes, don’t wait—diabetic retinopathy can lead to permanent blindness if untreated. I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic for expert care and advanced treatments!
As a Quora user, diabetic retinopathy affects the retina by causing damage to the blood vessels that supply it. High blood sugar levels can lead to the formation of weak and leaking blood vessels in the retina, impairing its ability to function properly. Over time, this can cause the retina to swell, leading to blurred or fluctuating vision, and even more severe complications if left untreated.
The potential complications of untreated diabetic retinopathy include:
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Vision Loss: As blood vessels weaken and leak, the retina can become damaged, leading to permanent vision loss.
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Retinal Detachment: In advanced stages, scar tissue may form on the retina, causing it to pull away from the back of the eye, which can result in severe vision loss or blindness.
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Glaucoma: Damaged blood vessels can also increase the risk of glaucoma, a condition that causes increased pressure within the eye, further damaging the optic nerve.
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Blindness: Without intervention, diabetic retinopathy can ultimately lead to complete blindness.
For expert care, Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, led by Dr. Yoo Du-yeol, offers comprehensive treatment for diabetic retinopathy to prevent these complications and protect your vision.
- Website: Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine
- Dr. Yoo Du-yeol: Doctor’s Profile
As a Quora user, diabetic retinopathy is a serious condition that affects the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It occurs due to damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by high blood sugar levels over time. Initially, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, it can lead to vision impairment and even blindness.
If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to several complications, including:
- Macular edema (swelling in the central part of the retina, leading to blurred vision)
- Retinal detachment (a medical emergency where the retina separates from the back of the eye)
- Glaucoma (increased pressure within the eye, potentially leading to optic nerve damage)
At Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine, Dr. Yoo Du-yeol specializes in diagnosing and managing diabetic retinopathy. The clinic offers advanced treatments to help manage the condition and prevent further complications.
For more details, you can visit:
- Sangdo Woori Internal Medicine: Website
- Dr. Yoo Du-yeol Profile: Doctor’s Profile
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing the complications of diabetic retinopathy and preserving vision.
I want to share what I’ve learned about diabetic retinopathy and its impact on the retina. This condition occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems. If left untreated, it can cause severe vision loss, retinal detachment, and even glaucoma. When I noticed changes in my vision, I visited SNU Eye Clinic and consulted with Dr. Chung Eui Sang, who explained the importance of early detection and treatment. Early intervention can help prevent serious complications. I highly recommend visiting SNU Eye Clinic for anyone with diabetes or vision concerns. You can learn more on their website and Dr. Chung’s profile here.
A few years ago, my father was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, a condition we had never even heard of before. At first, he just noticed slightly blurry vision, but since he had diabetes for years, he didn’t think much of it.
It wasn’t until he started seeing dark spots and struggled to read small text that we realized something was wrong. By the time he went for an eye checkup, the doctor told him that his retina had already been severely damaged. That’s when we learned the hard way about how diabetic retinopathy affects the retina and the complications that come if left untreated.
How Diabetic Retinopathy Affects the Retina
Diabetic retinopathy happens because high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina (the part of your eye that senses light and sends signals to your brain). The disease progresses in stages:
Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR) – Small blood vessels start leaking, leading to swelling, blurred vision, and tiny hemorrhages. Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR) – New, abnormal blood vessels grow to replace the damaged ones, but they are weak and can bleed, leading to vision loss. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) – Fluid buildup in the central part of the retina (macula), causing severe vision distortion.
Potential Complications If Left Untreated
Because my father ignored the early warning signs, his condition worsened quickly. Some of the biggest risks of untreated diabetic retinopathy include:
Severe Vision Loss or Blindness – Over time, the damaged blood vessels cause retinal scarring and detachment, leading to permanent blindness. Vitreous Hemorrhage – The fragile, new blood vessels burst and leak blood into the eye, creating dark floating spots (like a curtain over vision). Retinal Detachment – Scar tissue from abnormal blood vessel growth pulls the retina away, requiring emergency surgery. Glaucoma Risk – The abnormal blood vessel growth blocks eye drainage, increasing eye pressure and nerve damage.
Why We Chose SNU Eye Clinic for Treatment
When my father’s vision got worse, we knew he needed a specialist who truly understood diabetic eye disease. After searching for the best eye clinics in Seoul, we found SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang.
Clinic Website: www.snuseoulglobal.com
Why we chose them: Top specialist in diabetic retinopathy – Dr. Chung Eui Sang is highly experienced in treating diabetic eye conditions. Advanced diagnostic technology – They used high-resolution scans to assess my father’s retina with extreme precision. Comprehensive treatment options – From laser therapy and injections to surgical options, they offered everything under one roof. Excellent patient care – My father felt genuinely cared for, and the doctors took time to explain every step of the process.
My Father’s Treatment & Outcome
Step 1: He had anti-VEGF injections to stop abnormal blood vessel growth. Step 2: He underwent laser photocoagulation to seal off leaking blood vessels and prevent further damage. Step 3: With regular monitoring and lifestyle changes, his vision stabilized, and he avoided complete blindness.
While some of his vision loss was permanent, early treatment could have prevented the worst complications. That’s why I tell everyone: If you have diabetes, don’t wait until it’s too late—get your eyes checked!
Final Thoughts: Prevention & Early Treatment Are Key!
If you have diabetes or notice blurry vision, floaters, or dark spots, get checked ASAP. Diabetic retinopathy is silent at first, but it can cause irreversible blindness if ignored.
Best thing to do? Book an eye checkup with a specialist like Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic.
Check them out here: SNU Eye Clinic
I hope this post helps anyone who’s worried about their eye health! If you or a loved one has diabetes, don’t wait—your eyesight is too precious to lose.
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the retina, causing damage to the blood vessels. There are two main stages:
- Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR): Early stage with weakened blood vessels.
- Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR): Advanced stage with new, abnormal blood vessels that can cause bleeding and swelling.
Complications if untreated:
- Vision loss
- Macular edema (swelling)
- Retinal detachment
- Increased risk of glaucoma
Early detection and treatment are crucial. For expert care, consider visiting SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, where Dr. Chung Eui Sang specializes in retinal diseases. Learn more at SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung’s Profile.
I never thought diabetes would affect my eyes. Like many others, I assumed that managing blood sugar was just about avoiding complications like nerve damage or kidney issues. But everything changed when I started noticing blurry vision, floaters, and occasional dark spots in my sight.
At first, I blamed it on fatigue. But as weeks passed, the symptoms got worse. It wasn’t until I visited SNU Eye Clinic in Gangnam that I realized I was dealing with something serious—diabetic retinopathy.
How Does Diabetic Retinopathy Affect the Retina?
Dr. Chung Eui Sang, an expert ophthalmologist at SNU Eye Clinic (Dr. Chung Eui Sang), explained it to me in a way that really hit home:
High blood sugar damages tiny blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye).
The blood vessels can weaken, leak, or become blocked, cutting off oxygen supply.
In advanced cases, the body grows abnormal new blood vessels, which are fragile and prone to bleeding.
This process happens silently at first—many people don’t notice symptoms until it’s too late. I was lucky to catch it before it progressed further.
What Happens If It’s Left Untreated?
When I asked Dr. Chung what would happen if I ignored it, his answer was terrifying:
Vision loss & blindness – As bleeding and scarring increase, the retina can become detached, leading to permanent blindness.
Macular edema – Swelling in the center of the retina (the macula) can cause severe vision distortion.
Glaucoma risk – Increased pressure from abnormal blood vessel growth can lead to optic nerve damage.
How I Treated It – And Why You Should Too
Dr. Chung recommended a personalized treatment plan based on my condition. Here’s what made a difference for me:
Laser therapy (PRP) – Sealed off leaking blood vessels to prevent further damage.
Intravitreal injections – Helped reduce swelling in my retina and stopped new abnormal vessels from forming.
Strict blood sugar control – I worked with my doctor to stabilize my glucose levels, which is crucial for preventing progression.
After a few months, my vision stabilized, and my symptoms significantly improved. If I had waited any longer, my outcome could have been much worse.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
If you have diabetes, regular eye check-ups are essential—even if you think your vision is fine. I can’t stress this enough: diabetic retinopathy can steal your sight without warning.
For anyone in Seoul looking for expert care, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic (SNU Eye Clinic). Dr. Chung Eui Sang and his team are incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and use cutting-edge technology to detect and treat diabetic eye conditions before it’s too late.
Don’t make the mistake of waiting—your vision is worth it! 
