Background Retinopathy

[Mrs Mad Ronin]

Just had my annual diabetic screening results and it seems i now have background retinopathy. Not sure how i am feeling about it right now, just need to do more understanding of it

 

[trophywench]

Mrs Mad - I'd tell you to feel OK about it though not ecstatic and let it spur you on to have really excellent control of your D with lower BGs for longer periods every day - I say this because I had background R in one eye diagnosed in the middle 90s. Deep sigh and accepted that. When I got my pump in 2009, my control did instantly improve, yet the following year the other eye had joined the party - what a bummer! Control stayed very good and the following year - both eyes has cleared.

Here we are 10+ years later and both my eyes are still clear of it.

Hope you succeed.

 

[Drummer]

I had background retinopathy at my first check - a year later, nothing - but that was a year of low carb and normal readings so I was not concerned about anything deteriorating over that time.

 

[Northerner]

Just had my annual diabetic screening results and it seems i now have background retinopathy. Not sure how i am feeling about it right now, just need to do more understanding of it

If they're not calling you in for an earlier appointment than the usual 12 months then don't worry about it - as has been suggested, BR can remain stable for years or even resolve itself entirely by the time the next check comes around. I've had BR in both eyes practically since diagnosis but it's never got any worse. Just do the usual of trying to keep all your numbers - blood sugars, cholesterol and blood pressure - the best you can 🙂

 

[Mrs Mad Ronin]

No, they said no treatment or extra appointments just to carry on as normal.

Thanks all

 

[Meli1]

Just found this forum. I've had my results back and have got background retinopathy. Really upset me as I've been trying hard to get my numbers under control. Optician test was fine 6mths ago and yearly diabetic check in August was good. So was really worried and upset when I read the letter today. Reading this forum has helped me to calm down. Going to see the doc to talk through current stress levels, meds and to work on improving fitness and weight loss.

 

[Carlos]

As others said above, unless they're specifically asking to go back for further checks, I wouldn't worry about it. I've had it reported on and off for the last ten years, and still no problems. Just keep up the good control, and try not to worry unnecessarily.

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

Background Retinopathy usually indicates very small changes @Meli1 - though the letters are often really badly phrased.

Sometimes it occurs briefly after a rapid period of BG improvement and for some people it can resolve in time if BGs are well maintained.

It’s important to know about it though, so that you get your checks regularly and see if there are any changes.