Diabetic Retinopathy

[freebird4good]

Hi -
Seven years ago, I lost all vision in my left eye to diabetic retinopathy.  My right eye is also affected.  I've had several laser surgeries done on my right eye.  Since going on an insulin pump six years ago, my retinopathy has remained stable and non progressive.  My a1c has remained a constant 5.8 since going on the insulin pump.  I'm 43 yrs old and have been a diabetic (insulin dependent) for 35 years.

This past week, I had cataract surgery on my right eye.  My Opthalmologist says that the retinopathy may flare up as a result of the cataract surgery.  It's possible that it may also stay stable.  He said that if it flares up, it could happen anytime from now up until a month from now.
I'm scared to death.  In the meantime, my vision has improved since the cataract surgery.
What can I do to help my eye to stay healthy ?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

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[freebird4good]

Thank you.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

The highest risk of progression of the retinopathy would be in the first 6 months following surgery. The most important things are what you already should know: keep you A1c as low as possible, keep your weight down, exercise, don't smoke, keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under excellent control, eat well, drink in moderation, cosider taking a baby aspirin/day and see you ophthalmologist at least each 6 months for the next two years.

JCH III MD