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Background Retinopathy

T

three1ne

Active Member
Messages
43
Hi all. I just got a letter saying ive got background retinopathy (had the test done on every 6 month check up). Just wanted any extra info that anyone might have here.

My HBA1Cs are excellent, 5.4 (9 months ago), 5.3 recently.

Is 'background retinopathy' the first step of many potential problems or is this something that can clear up?

It mentions that blood pressure also plays its part. Last time I went to the doctors that was slightly high so ill book another appointment for a check up. What can I do to reduce blood pressure?

As always, any help is most appreciated.

Shaun
 
Background retinopathy is usually considered to be "not a problem" and it doesn't necessarily progress. With Good BG control, You should be fine. It certainly won't hurt to get the blood pressure down.
Hana
 
Hi Shaun,

Well done with the levels of blood glucose control. Great stuff!

I don't have any personal experience myself of retinopathy but from what I've read - and discussed with the nurse who carries out my retinal screening - I understand that it is something that can go away with good levels of control such as those you are achieving at present.

Best wishes - John
 
three1ne said:
It mentions that blood pressure also plays its part. Last time I went to the doctors that was slightly high so ill book another appointment for a check up. What can I do to reduce blood pressure?
Click to expand...
Blood pressure is HUGELY significant with any microvascular complication, and so often underestimated as a factor. Reducing your salt intake and exercising regularly should help, and get your bp checked at least annually (watch out for "white coat syndrome" to ensure representative readings, buy your own meter if necessary). Your GP will advise if and what meds are needed at any stage.
 
Thanks for the replies everyone. I do exercise quite a lot and am reasonably healthy on the whole so seems a little strange to me as to why ive now developed this but ill get my blood pressure checked out.

My mind is a little more restful now because of your replies. Thanks again everyone.
 
It's probably worth disussing ACE inhibitors. These will not only help protect the vessels in your eyes (and kidneys) but help lower your blood pressure too. (I'm on ramipril .. my blood pressure is low anyway so I take it last thing at night)

Linda
 
Angeldust said:
I'm on ramipril .. my blood pressure is low anyway so I take it last thing at night)
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Thats odd, I thought Ramipril was prescribed to combat high blood pressure, as it was in my case...I can find no mention of it being prescribed for low blood pressure anywhere, unless no one has told Google, are you sure you have been given it for low bp Linda?
 
Ramipril is prescribed for:

High blood pressure
Heart failure
Prevention of heart attack and stroke in people who are at risk.

My blood pressure was normal when I was diagnosed T2 but the Consultant prescribes Ramipril to those over 60 for the last f the reasons listed above.
 

Hi Sid, sorry I think you read my post wrong. I said it will 'help lower your blood pressure.

And I mean that I take it last thing at night because I already have low blood pressure. So I don't faint from it being in my boots or anything.

I'm on ramipril to help protect my kidneys because I have high albumin urea,
 
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