Category: Diabetic Retinopathy

Currently the names of injection given in India are:

• antiVEGF: Avastin/ Accentrix/Lucentis
• Biosimilar: Razumab
• VEGF trap: Eylea
• Steroids: Intravitreal steroids/ steroid implant( Ozurdex)

Eye injections are a common way to treat various
complications of diabetic retinopathy. There are different types of eye
injections and its given for different types of complications.

Remember eye injections are given ONLY when
complications happen.

Yes, diabetic retinopathy is very much treatable. The results of treatment depends at which stage , its started. Better results are obtained when diagnosis and treatment is started early.

Yes, diabetic retinopathy can be diagnosed by any practicing ophthalmologist . The need for referral to a retinal surgeon is based on the condition of the eye.

• Those with type I should be examined 5 years after onset and then every year
• Those with type II should be examined at the time of diagnosis and then every year
• Women with either type should have retinal exam before conception and then in the first trimester of their pregnancy

All forms of diabetes can affect the eye when not properly monitored. Type I, II and gestational variety can affect the eye.Children and young adolescents too can develop diabetic retinopathy.

Although diabetes as such can be multifactorial and hereditary, retinopathy many not . Its best to have ones retina examined if in doubt.

What makes diabetic retinopathy so dangerous is that its mostly painless . There occurs no pain whatsoever. Pain or redness happens in very late stages , during which not much can be done.

The only way to detect retinopathy is to visit an ophthalmologist closest to you. Retinopathy cannot be detected by just examination of eye power or glasses.

Although retina and retinopathy is best examined by dilating the eye; a non-dilating exam can also be done to rule out early retinopathy.

Apart from factors mentioned above; poor blood pressure control, presence of kidney disease, high cholesterol, low hemoglobin levels are other risk factors which increases chances of retinopathy.