Click on the links below to learn more about DR and DME.
When you have DR, you may develop too much of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor, or VEGF. This causes unhealthy blood vessel growth in the eye. These blood vessels can leak and swell, causing vision problems.
DR affects blood vessels in the light-sensitive tissue called the retina, which lines the back of the eye.
Worsening DR can lead to DME. When a person has DME, the blood vessels in the back of the eye swell, weaken, and leak. This happens in a part of the retina called the macula.
The macula is responsible for sharp, central vision. DME can cause too much fluid to build up in the macula, which can lead to vision changes if left untreated.
If you have diabetes and are experiencing problems with your vision, talk to your doctor right away.
Diabetes and uncontrolled high blood sugar may lead to DR or DME. If you do not manage your diabetes and blood sugar, you may increase your risk for problems with vision.
Higher rates of DR and DME have been found in people with Black, Hispanic, or Native American ancestry.
There may be options to help you afford LUCENTIS, no matter what type of health insurance you have. Learn about Genentech Ophthalmology Access Solutions.
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