Diabetic Retinopathy

[barry1010]

Just goes to show pride does come before a fall. I have been pretty proud of myself for beating Type 2 diabetes by diet and exercise, coming off all drugs and keeping my blood sugar readings within the normal range.
Had the letter yesterday telling me that my recent eye screen showed I have background retinopathy and advising me to get my blood sugars down and exercise more. I very nearly didn't bother going for the test as I didn't think I was at risk.

If anyone else has this I would be grateful for their input. I must admit it was a bit of a body blow.

[douglas9401]

Since diagnosis I've realised that whatever you do it's never enough for the diabetes police.

It can be quite disheartening.

[barry1010]

douglas, I'm hoping to hear from people who have had 'background retinopathy' for 30 years or more without it progressing. Fingers crossed!

[Sqad]

That is indeed a body blow for which you truly have my sympathy considering the mature way that you have managed your diabetes.
We're I in your shoes, I would make an appt to see a Consultant Ophthalmologist to get the diagnosis confirmed after which we can deal with any concerns.

One can develop retinopathy without being a diabetic.

I am a Type2 diabetic on Insulin but as far asI know don't have any retinal changes.

Good luck Barry.

[barry1010]

Thanks very much, Sqad. I shall make the arrangements to see a consultant.

[barry1010]

Does anyone know if the retinopathy affects or is affected by fuchs dystrophy and vitreous detachment which I also have?

[bednobs]

IMO ANYONE with diabetes would expect to see some background changes over the course of say 10 years, no matter how well it's controlled

[Sqad]

barry, I know very little of Fuch's Dystrophy or Vitreous problems but I do know that neither affect the retina or depend upon vascular supply as does Diabetic Retinopathy.

For what it is worth I can only suggest that any deterioration in sight due to DR, if any, will be added to sight impairment due to your other two ocular problems, if any.

[barry1010]

Thanks again, Sqad

[Buenchico]

There's some information here that might be relevant:
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications/retinopathy/how-is-retinopathy-treated

BTW: 'Pride goes before a fall' is actually a misquote from the Bible. What Proverbs 16:18 really says is "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall".

[barry1010]

Well I hope I was right, Buenchico, and my pride has only come before a fall and not my destruction. :(
Thanks for the link, though :)

[bobbie22]

Hi I am Type 2 diabetic, and have had background retinopathy for maybe 20 years. I also now have background maculopathy. I have had diabetes for around 35 years and I am basically ok. I have recently has a cataract removed and waiting for a date to have the other one removed. The sight difference is amazing. My Consultants are keeping a watch on my other eye conditions

[barry1010]

Thanks for that, Bobbie. Hoping I don’t get cataracts as Fuchs can make removal difficult but it is reassuring to know your retinopathy hasn’t developed

[Sqad]

APG. I have no problem with that, the Oper can now make up her mind based on the posts offered.

[Sqad]

Sorry, wrong thread.