All you need to know about: diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease caused by diabetes and is the leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults. It occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina, the layer inside the eye that detects light. Anyone with diabetes, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes, can develop the condition.

Diabetic retinopathy progresses through two stages: non-proliferative and proliferative. In the early stage, weak and swollen blood vessels may leak blood and fluid, leading to macular edema and vision loss. In the advanced stage, new blood vessels form, causing bleeding and scar tissue that can detach the retina. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include floaters, blurred vision, faded colors, dark or empty areas in the field of vision, and loss of vision.

Risk factors include uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, heart disease, coronary artery disease, and chronic kidney disease. Diagnosis involves an eye examination with dilated pupils, OCT, and fluorescein angiography. Treatment depends on the severity and may include managing blood sugar, blood pressure, medication, laser surgery, or vitrectomy.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as certain damage to the eye caused by diabetic retinopathy cannot be fully reversed.