Session on Diabetic Retinopathy for Mohali Senior Citizens Association

Retinopathy is a condition where the small blood vessels in the eyes become damaged as a result of High Blood Pressure or Diabetes. When the damage is caused by Diabetes, it is called Diabetic Retinopathy. Fortis Hospital Mohali organised an informative session highlighting the importance of recogninising Diabetic Retinopathy and the treatment options available. Dr. Mukesh Vats, Ophthalmologist & Retina Specialist, was the keynote speaker in this session.

Sharing valuable information on the topic, Dr. Vats said that it affects up to 80 percent of all patients who have had Diabetes for 10 years or more. A person with Diabetes is likely to have blurred vision, making it hard to do things like read or drive. In some cases, the vision will get better or worse during the day. Like chronic diseases, retinopathy develops over time and symptoms are often not felt until the damage is done. Most often, it has has no early warning signs.

Dr. Vats cautioned, that a patient who has Diabetes should be aware that his/her eyes are at risk and ignorance to this disease can result in permanent blindness. He also discussed various treatment options available for the management of retinopathy and asserted the need fot regular checkups, which can prevent further damage as well as help in managing chronic kidney disease. The talk was followed by a Q&A session, where Dr. Vats clarified various doubts raised by the audience. Over 80 members of the association attended the session.