Diabetic eye disease in San Antonio, TX

What is diabetic eye disease?

Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar weakens the tiny blood vessels in the retina. They can leak fluid and blood, or abnormal new vessels can grow. When fluid collects in the macula, the center of the retina, it is called diabetic macular edema.

Diabetes also raises the risk of cataracts and glaucoma, so people with diabetes benefit from regular exams with an eye surgeon who treats all three. South Texas has high rates of diabetes, which makes screening especially important here.

Sudden vision loss, a sudden shower of floaters, or a curtain over your vision needs a same-day exam.

Diabetic eye disease care in San Antonio

Patients come to our San Antonio – Medical Center office at 10935 Wurzbach Rd, Suite 202 for diabetic eye disease care from Stone Oak, Alamo Heights, Shavano Park, Leon Valley, Helotes, Universal City and across San Antonio. With three San Antonio offices (Medical Center, North Central and South), there is usually one close to home or work. Dr. Kavanagh operates at three San Antonio surgery centers, plus GRMC Outpatient in Seguin.

Symptoms

Often none in the early stages
Blurry or fluctuating vision
Spots, dark strings or floaters
Dark or empty areas in your vision
Trouble with colors

Risk factors

Type 1 or type 2 diabetes, especially for many years
High blood sugar or A1C
High blood pressure and cholesterol
Pregnancy in women with diabetes

How we evaluate it

A dilated retinal exam, retinal photography and OCT scanning (a detailed cross-section of the retina) show leaking vessels and swelling, often before you notice any change.

Dr. Kavanagh examining a patient at the slit lamp — A dilated exam is the best way to catch diabetic changes early.

Treatment options

Blood sugar and blood pressure controlThe foundation of protecting your eyes, in partnership with your primary doctor.

Anti-VEGF injectionsPerformed in our office by Dr. Kavanagh. These medications reduce macular swelling and abnormal vessel growth.

Retinal laserFocal laser to seal leaking vessels and panretinal laser to shrink abnormal vessels, performed in our office.

Retina surgeryFor vitreous bleeding or scar tissue in advanced cases, we work closely with retina surgeons.

Dr. Kavanagh and our team see patients for diabetic eye disease at our San Antonio office and across South Texas. Every plan is tailored to your eyes after an exam.

For educational purposes. This page explains common conditions and treatments to help you prepare for your visit. Your exam determines the right plan for your eyes.

NormalDiabetic retinopathy

How it can look

Diabetic eye disease, seen through the patient's eyes

Drag the slider to compare normal vision with a simulation of diabetic retinopathy. Everyone's experience is different, and early stages may cause no visible change at all.

Questions

Common questions

How often should I have an eye exam with diabetes?

At least once a year, or more often if changes are found. Pregnancy calls for closer monitoring.

Can diabetic retinopathy be reversed?

Early damage can stabilize and swelling can improve with treatment. Catching it early is the best protection.

Related conditions