Eye Condition
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss.
People with diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy when high blood sugar damages blood vessels in the retina. These vessels may swell, leak, or close off and sometimes abnormal new vessels can grow.
Early stage where blood vessels leak causing swelling of the retina and macula.
Advanced stage where abnormal blood vessels grow and can bleed or cause retinal damage.
Diagnosis requires a dilated eye exam. Imaging tests such as OCT or retinal photography may be used to evaluate the retina.
Treatment depends on disease severity and may include:
Regular eye exams are important for people with diabetes to prevent permanent vision loss.
