Diabetic retinopathy develops when prolonged high blood sugar damages the blood vessels of the retina. Left unchecked, it can lead to vision loss, but with timely diagnosis and the right treatment, the risk can be significantly reduced.
When to Visit an Ophthalmologist or an Eye Doctor for Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy usually causes no symptoms in its early stages, which is why routine screening matters more than waiting for visible signs. Consult an eye doctor if:
- You have been diagnosed with diabetes, regardless of how well it’s controlled
- You notice blurred vision, floaters, or dark spots
- You experience sudden vision changes or a shadow across part of your vision
- Your blood sugar has been poorly controlled for an extended period
- You are diabetic and pregnant
A dilated retinal examination is the only reliable way to detect early changes, since vision can remain unaffected even when damage has already started.
Advanced Technology Used by Dr. Jayesh Nisar for Diabetic Retinopathy
Accurate diagnosis requires more than a standard vision test. At Nisar Eye Hospital, diabetic retinopathy is assessed using:
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – provides a cross-sectional view of the retina to detect swelling and fluid build-up
- Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA) – maps blood flow through retinal vessels to identify leakage or blockages
- Digital fundus photography – documents the retina for tracking changes over time
- Dilated retinal examination – allows direct visual assessment of the retina and its blood vessels
This combination allows changes to be identified at a stage where treatment is most effective.
How Dr. Jayesh Nisar Detects Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
During examination, specific retinal changes are assessed, including:
- Small retinal haemorrhages
- Fatty deposits (exudates) on the retina
- Swelling in the macula (diabetic macular oedema)
- Abnormal new blood vessel growth (in advanced stages)
- Signs of restricted blood flow within the retina
These findings determine the stage of retinopathy, ranging from mild non-proliferative changes to more advanced proliferative disease, and guide the treatment approach.
Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy Explained by Dr. Jayesh Nisar
Diabetic retinopathy results from sustained high blood sugar levels damaging the small blood vessels supplying the retina. Several factors increase the likelihood of developing it:
- Long duration of diabetes
- Poorly controlled blood sugar levels
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Pregnancy
- Kidney disease associated with diabetes
These factors don’t guarantee retinopathy will develop, but they do raise the risk and the rate at which it can progress.
Comprehensive Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment in Mumbai, India
Treatment is determined by the stage and severity of the condition. Available options include:
- Blood sugar and blood pressure management – for early-stage, mild changes
- Anti-VEGF injections – to reduce swelling and abnormal vessel growth
- Laser photocoagulation – to seal leaking or abnormal blood vessels
- Vitrectomy surgery – for advanced cases involving bleeding into the eye
There is no single treatment suited to every patient; the right approach depends on retinal findings at the time of diagnosis, and is reviewed periodically as the condition is monitored.
Diabetic Retinopathy Prevention Tips by Dr. Jayesh Nisar
While diabetic retinopathy cannot always be prevented, its progression can often be slowed with consistent management:
- Maintain HbA1c levels within the range advised by your physician
- Control blood pressure and cholesterol
- Avoid smoking
- Schedule a dilated retinal exam at least once a year, even without symptoms
- Monitor vision changes closely during pregnancy, if applicable
Routine eye screening should be treated as a standard part of diabetes management, not as an optional step.
When Should You Consult Dr. Jayesh Nisar for Diabetic Retinopathy?
Book a consultation if you are diabetic and have not had a retinal check-up in the past year, or if you notice any sudden change in vision, including new floaters, distortion, or a shadow effect. Pregnant women with diabetes and patients with longstanding or poorly controlled diabetes should also be examined more frequently.
Why Choose Nisar Eye Hospital for Diabetic Retinopathy Care?
Nisar Eye Hospital provides diagnosis and treatment for diabetic retinopathy in Mumbai, with an emphasis on detailed retinal assessment before recommending a treatment plan. For patients seeking clarity on their retinal scans and a clear explanation of next steps, Jayesh Nisar and the clinical team are available for consultation.
Last Updated: 28 June 2026
Content Written by: Dr. Jayesh Nisar
