Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment in Long Beach, CA
Up to one-third of people with diabetes develop diabetic retinopathy, a potentially serious condition that can lead to significant vision loss if left untreated. At Apex Retina Institute in Long Beach, CA, board-certified ophthalmologist Darren Knight, MD, and his team specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic retinopathy using the most advanced therapies available, including intravitreal eye injections and retinal laser therapy. Call (562) 534-1777 today or book your appointment online.
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that directly affects the eyes. It causes progressive damage to the blood vessels at the back of your eye, near the retina — the light-sensitive tissue responsible for receiving visual images and transmitting them to your brain for interpretation. When these blood vessels are damaged, they can swell, leak fluid, or grow abnormally, all of which can impair or threaten your vision over time.
Anyone with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes is at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, though it is not inevitable. The longer a person has had diabetes and the less controlled their blood sugar, the greater their risk. Regular eye examinations, healthy lifestyle habits, and working closely with your healthcare team to maintain stable blood glucose levels are among the most effective ways to protect your eyesight. At Apex Retina Institute, we partner with our patients to detect retinopathy as early as possible and intervene before serious vision loss occurs.
What Are the Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy?
In its earliest stages, diabetic retinopathy may cause no noticeable symptoms at all — which is why routine eye exams are so critical for anyone living with diabetes. As the condition progresses, patients may begin to experience symptoms including blurred vision, fluctuating vision, dark or empty areas in the field of vision, and partial or complete vision loss. Some patients also notice an increase in floaters or flashes of light, which can be an indication that the retina is under stress. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact Apex Retina Institute at (562) 534-1777 as soon as possible for a prompt evaluation.
Should I See a Retina Specialist About Diabetic Retinopathy?
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes — regardless of whether your vision currently seems normal — it is essential to schedule regular visits with a retina specialist. Dr. Knight and the Apex Retina Institute team recommend annual dilated eye exams for all diabetic patients, as early-stage retinopathy can be present and progressing without any symptoms. Identifying the condition early dramatically improves treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of irreversible vision loss. Do not wait for symptoms to appear; proactive monitoring is your best defense. New patients are always welcome at our Long Beach office.
How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed?
At Apex Retina Institute, Dr. Knight takes a thorough and individualized approach to diagnosing diabetic retinopathy. Your appointment will begin with a review of your complete medical history, a discussion of your symptoms and diabetes management, and a comprehensive dilated eye examination. Dr. Knight uses specialized eyedrops to dilate your pupils, allowing him to examine the retina and surrounding structures in detail. Depending on your presentation, one or more of the following imaging tests may also be performed:
Fluorescein Angiography — During this diagnostic test, a small amount of colored dye is injected into a vein in your arm. The dye travels through the bloodstream and into the blood vessels of your eye, making it possible to identify vessels that are broken, closed, or actively leaking fluid.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) — OCT uses light waves to produce highly detailed, cross-sectional images of your retina. This technology allows Dr. Knight to precisely measure the thickness of the retina, detect fluid accumulation, and monitor changes over time — all without any discomfort or radiation.
Together, these tools give Dr. Knight a complete picture of your retinal health and allow him to develop the most targeted and effective treatment plan for your specific situation.
How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Treated?
Diabetic retinopathy requires timely and often ongoing treatment to prevent progression and preserve vision. At Apex Retina Institute, Dr. Knight offers the most advanced, evidence-based treatment options available. The right approach for you will depend on the stage of your retinopathy, your overall health, and your treatment goals.
Eye Injections (Anti-VEGF Therapy) — Intravitreal injections use a class of medications known as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors to block the growth of abnormal blood vessels near the retina and reduce swelling caused by fluid leakage. Dr. Knight applies a topical anesthetic before the procedure to ensure your comfort, and most patients tolerate the treatment very well. Anti-VEGF injections are often administered on a regular schedule and have been shown to significantly slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy and improve visual outcomes.
Retinal Laser Therapy — When blood vessels near the retina are leaking or have broken down, retinal laser treatment may be recommended. This procedure uses precisely focused laser energy to seal leaking vessels, reduce fluid accumulation, and help stabilize vision. Laser therapy is a well-established treatment with a strong track record of slowing vision loss in patients with proliferative and non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
In addition to in-office treatments, Dr. Knight works closely with each patient to reinforce the importance of blood sugar control, blood pressure management, and regular follow-up care as part of a comprehensive long-term strategy. To learn more about your treatment options or to schedule a consultation, contact Apex Retina Institute in Long Beach, CA at (562) 534-1777 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetic Retinopathy
What causes diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the tiny blood vessels supplying the retina. Over time, these vessels can swell, leak, or become blocked, and in advanced cases, abnormal new blood vessels may grow on the surface of the retina. The longer a person has had diabetes and the less controlled their blood sugar, the higher their risk of developing this condition. Managing blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol are all important factors in reducing that risk.
Can diabetic retinopathy be reversed?
While the damage caused by diabetic retinopathy cannot always be fully reversed, early diagnosis and treatment can halt its progression and, in many cases, improve vision. Treatments such as anti-VEGF eye injections and retinal laser therapy are highly effective at stabilizing the condition and preventing further vision loss. This is why routine monitoring at a retina specialty practice like Apex Retina Institute in Long Beach, CA is so important for all diabetic patients.
How often should I have my eyes examined if I have diabetes?
The Apex Retina Institute team recommends that all patients with diabetes — whether Type 1 or Type 2 — have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once per year, even if no vision problems are currently present. If diabetic retinopathy has already been diagnosed, more frequent visits may be recommended depending on the severity of the condition. Early detection is the single most important factor in preserving long-term vision for diabetic patients.
Is diabetic retinopathy treatment painful?
Most patients tolerate diabetic retinopathy treatments very well. Before administering intravitreal injections, Dr. Knight applies a topical anesthetic to numb the eye, minimizing discomfort during the procedure. Retinal laser therapy is typically performed in-office and is well tolerated by the majority of patients. Dr. Knight and the Apex Retina Institute team prioritize your comfort and will walk you through exactly what to expect before any treatment begins.
What other retinal conditions are associated with diabetes?
In addition to diabetic retinopathy, people with diabetes are at increased risk for several other retinal conditions, including diabetic macular edema (a buildup of fluid in the central retina), retinal vascular disease such as retinal vein occlusion, and an elevated risk of retinal detachment. Regular monitoring at Apex Retina Institute helps ensure that any emerging conditions are identified and addressed promptly.
Does Apex Retina Institute accept insurance for diabetic retinopathy treatment?
Apex Retina Institute accepts a wide range of insurance plans to help make specialized retina care as accessible as possible. We encourage you to visit our insurances page to review accepted plans, or call our office at (562) 534-1777 so a team member can verify your coverage ahead of your appointment. Our staff is happy to answer any questions about costs and coverage.
How do I get started with diabetic retinopathy care at Apex Retina Institute?
Getting started is simple. You can request an appointment online or call Apex Retina Institute directly at (562) 534-1777. Whether you have been referred by another provider or are seeking care on your own, our team will ensure a smooth and welcoming experience from your very first visit. Learn what to expect as a new patient on our website before your appointment.