Diabetic Retinopathy
Overview & Our Approach to Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a potentially blinding complication of diabetes that damages the eye’s retina. It affects half of all Americans diagnosed with diabetes.
However, only 6% of diabetics lose their vision. Blindness is largely preventable if patient and the medical team work together diligently. Prevention relies upon the proper use of medications, daily blood sugar testing, correct lifestyle habits, diet and supplementation.
Complications related to sugar/glucose imbalances in the blood can result in damage to the retina which may not be noticeable at first, but the consequences can get worse with time severely threatening vision.
- Reducing Autoimmune Responses: We utilize acupuncture, supplements, and at-home devices to help manage autoimmune responses that may attack retinal nerves, thereby reducing inflammation and supporting overall retinal health.
- Preserving Retinal Health: Our treatments focus on managing the underlying factors contributing to retinal nerve degeneration, aiming to preserve and enhance retinal function through a combination of lifestyle modifications, targeted therapies, and nutritional support.
- Telehealth & In-Office Treatments: Intensive, personalized treatments in our New Jersey office for the fastest and most effective results.
- At-Home Care with ACS3000: The ACS3000 system is available for at-home care to support and maintain retinal health between office visits.
- Targeted Supplements: We provide specialized and targeted supplements to support overall eye health and help prevent further damage to the retina.
Symptoms & Causes Central Serous Choroidopathy
Retinal Damage
Diabetic retinopathy results from damage to the retinal blood vessels caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels. This damage can lead to progressive vision loss if not managed properly. The condition affects the retina in several ways:
- Microaneurysms: Tiny bulges in blood vessels of the retina that may leak fluid and cause swelling.
- Retinal Edema: Swelling in the retina due to fluid leakage from damaged blood vessels.
- Neovascularization: Growth of abnormal new blood vessels on the surface of the retina, which can bleed and lead to vision loss.
- Retinal Detachment: Scar tissue from neovascularization can pull the retina away from the back of the eye, leading to severe vision impairment.
Neurodegeneration
- Mechanical Trauma: Structural damage to retinal blood vessels and nerves from high blood sugar levels.
- Decreased Blood Flow: Impaired circulation leads to insufficient oxygen and nutrients reaching the retinal cells, causing cell death.
- Retinal Ganglion Cell Death: Loss of these essential cells disrupts the transmission of visual information from the eye to the brain.
Neuroinflammation
- Microglial Activation: Immune cells in the retina become overactive, contributing to nerve cell degeneration and worsening neuroinflammation.
- Cytokine Release: Inflammatory proteins that can exacerbate damage to retinal neurons and blood vessels.
Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress plays a significant role in diabetic retinopathy by damaging retinal cells and blood vessels. It involves:
- DNA Damage: High levels of glucose increase the production of free radicals, which damage cellular DNA.
- Disrupted Blood Flow Regulation: Impaired blood flow due to oxidative stress leads to further retinal damage. Antioxidants are being studied to combat this damage and improve retinal health in diabetic retinopathy.
Other Risk Factors
- Prolonged Hyperglycemia: Consistently high blood sugar levels over time cause cumulative damage to retinal blood vessels and nerves.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure can worsen the damage to retinal blood vessels.
- Dyslipidemia: Abnormal cholesterol levels can contribute to retinal blood vessel damage.
- Smoking: Tobacco use exacerbates oxidative stress and inflammation, increasing the risk of retinal damage.
- Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic susceptibility to developing diabetic retinopathy.
- Environmental Factors: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and exposure to pollutants can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina.
Telehealth and Intensive In-Office Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment
Start Your Journey with a Telehealth Consultation and Experience the Fastest Results with Our Comprehensive In-Office Care
If you’re seeking the most effective treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy, our intensive in-office appointments offer the fastest results. Many of our patients choose to visit our New Jersey office for this reason. During these intensive appointments, you’ll undergo a series of advanced treatments tailored to your specific needs over several days, ensuring comprehensive and effective care.
At-Home Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment with the ACS-3000
Discover the At-Home Frequency Specific Alternating Current Micro Stimulation System
Yes, you can achieve vision recovery from the comfort of your home! Introducing the all-new ACS-3000 at-home vision recovery system. This advanced technology utilizes Frequency Specific Alternating Current Micro Stimulation to support optic nerve health and improve vision.
The ACS-3000 system is designed for convenience and effectiveness, allowing you to benefit from cutting-edge treatments without leaving your home. It’s an excellent option for those seeking ongoing care and maintenance for Diabetic Retinopathy.
Experience the benefits of the ACS-3000 and see what you’ve been missing. Learn more about how this innovative system can help you!
Shop Diabetic Retinopathy Supplements
Our team works to create or find the best supportive eye supplements that will give you the greatest effect.
Total Vision MA48
Hydro Vision – H2 Vision
