What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can affect anyone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels of the retina — the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye — causing them to leak, swell or grow abnormally.
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms. That is why a yearly dilated eye exam is one of the most important things people with diabetes can do to protect their sight.
Warning Signs
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Spots or dark strings floating in your vision
- Dark or empty areas in your field of vision
- Difficulty seeing at night or perceiving colors
Protecting Your Vision
Annual Dilated Exams
Detecting changes early, often before you notice symptoms, gives you the most treatment options.
Blood Sugar Control
Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in a healthy range lowers your risk of progression.
Advanced Treatments
When needed, injections, laser treatment and other therapies can slow damage and help preserve vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should people with diabetes have an eye exam?
At least once a year, or more often if your eye doctor recommends it. Pregnant women with diabetes may need more frequent exams.
Can diabetic retinopathy be reversed?
Damage that has already occurred cannot always be undone, but treatment can stop or slow progression and, in some cases, improve vision. Early detection makes the biggest difference.