If the retinal blood vessels in the macula close, the macula
stops working. This causes loss of central or detail vision.
Although there is no medical, surgical, or laser surgery for this
form of diabetic retinopathy, eyesight may be helped somewhat
with the use of special low vision aids: magnifying lenses for
close-up and telescopic lenses for distance. And, with
counseling, patients who have lost macular vision can learn to
use some of their peripheral or side vision to help them see more
clearly and to cope more effectively with the practical tasks of
everyday life. Finally, people with diabetes who have lost their
central vision must continue to have regular retinal examinations
because PDR can develop and damage the remaining peripheral
vision.
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