What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes-related eye condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It is one of the leading causes of blindness among adults and progresses through stages, starting from mild non-proliferative retinopathy to more severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
Causes
This condition occurs due to high blood sugar levels over time, leading to damage of the tiny blood vessels in the retina. These damaged vessels can leak fluid or bleed, obscuring vision and potentially leading to scarring or retinal detachment.
Symptoms
Often, diabetic retinopathy develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as it progresses, symptoms may include blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and the appearance of floaters or dark spots in the field of vision.
Prevention and Management
Preventive measures include maintaining proper blood sugar levels, regular eye examinations, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Early detection through routine eye screenings can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision loss.