Recognizing the Early Signs of Diabetic Retinopathy

Eye doctor holding magnifying glass up to eye anatomy model For people living with diabetes, keeping an eye on your vision is just as important as managing blood sugar levels. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that develops when high blood sugar levels harm the small blood vessels in the retina – the part of the eye that captures light and sends images to your brain. Often, this damage occurs silently, without noticeable symptoms at first. If left untreated, it can lead to serious vision problems or even permanent blindness.

Richens Eye Center provides diabetic eye care to patients in St. George, Utah, and Mesquite, Nevada, using the latest diagnostic tools and treatments. Our team of board-certified opthamologists and optometrists will help you maintain your eye health.

Early Signs of Diabetic Retinopathy to Watch For

In its earliest stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause pain or immediate vision changes. However, some signs can signal the condition is developing, including:

  • Blurry or fluctuating vision: Vision may come and go or appear less clear than usual.
  • Dark spots or floaters: Small spots, shadows, or strings that seem to float across your vision may indicate blood vessel damage.
  • Trouble seeing at night: You might notice it’s harder to drive or navigate in dim lighting.
  • Difficulty distinguishing colors: Colors may appear dull or faded.

These symptoms may seem minor, but they can indicate that damage to your retina is already happening. That’s why regular eye exams are so important.

Why Early Detection Matters

If diabetic retinopathy goes untreated, it can lead to severe complications like diabetic macular edema, retinal detachment, or even permanent blindness. Early diagnosis gives you more options for treatment, including medications, laser therapy, or other advanced procedures that can prevent further damage.

At Richens Eye Center, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to identify diabetic retinopathy in its earliest stages. We’ll create a treatment plan to protect your vision and give you peace of mind.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Schedule an eye exam with Richens Eye Center today. We serve patients at several convenient locations:

Contact Our Practice

Richens Eye Center
St. George/Downtown

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-12pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Richens Eye Center
St. George/Sunset

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-2pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Richens Eye Center
Mesquite

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm
Fri: 8am-2pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

Richens Eye Center
Little Valley

Office Hours

Mon-Thurs: 9am-5pm
Fri: 9am-1pm
Sat-Sun: Closed

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