Diabetic retinopathy
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can happen in people with diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye (the retina). This can lead to vision problems and, if not treated, blindness.
Key facts
- Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision loss in adults.
- It often has no symptoms in early stages, so regular eye exams are crucial.
- Good diabetes management can slow or prevent the condition.
Yes, it is common among people with diabetes. About one in three people with diabetes has some form of diabetic retinopathy.
It affects people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, especially those who have had diabetes for a long time or have poorly controlled blood sugar. It can also affect pregnant women with diabetes.
Symptoms
- Sudden vision loss
- A curtain-like shadow over part of your vision
- Sudden flashes of light
- A sudden increase in floaters (dark spots)
- ⚠New or worsening blurry vision
- ⚠Difficulty with daily tasks like reading or driving
- ⚠Any sudden change in vision that doesn't improve quickly
Common symptoms
- Blurred vision
- Dark spots or 'floaters'
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Vision that changes often
- Colors that look faded or different
Symptoms in children
- Squinting
- Trouble seeing the board at school
- Frequent headaches
Symptoms in older adults
- Subtle changes in vision
- Increased difficulty reading or recognizing faces
- May be mistaken for normal aging
Causes
Main causes
- High blood sugar levels over time damage the small blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak fluid or blood.
- Abnormal new blood vessels may grow on the retina, which are fragile and can bleed easily.
Risk factors
- Long duration of diabetes
- Poorly controlled blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Being of certain ethnic backgrounds (e.g., African American, Hispanic, Native American)
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Any sudden vision changes, especially vision loss, flashes of light, or a curtain over part of your vision.
Book a routine appointment if:
- All people with diabetes should have an annual dilated eye exam, even if they have no symptoms.
- If diabetic retinopathy is found, follow your doctor's schedule for follow-up visits.
Diagnosis
Through a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The doctor will dilate (widen) your pupils to see the retina clearly.
Tests that may be done
- Visual acuity test (reading an eye chart)
- Dilated eye exam
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) – a scan of the retina to see swelling or fluid
- Fluorescein angiography – a dye test to show blood flow and leaking vessels
What to expect at your appointment
The exam is painless. The drops may sting briefly. Your vision may be blurry for a few hours after the exam, so bring sunglasses and arrange for someone to drive you home.
Treatment
Treatment aims to slow or stop progression and preserve vision. Early stages may only require monitoring and good diabetes control. More advanced stages may need laser treatment, injections, or surgery.
Self-care at home
- Keep blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol in target range.
- Take diabetes medications as prescribed.
- Quit smoking.
- Have regular eye exams as recommended by your doctor.
Medical treatments
Treatment approaches include laser therapy (photocoagulation) to seal leaking blood vessels or shrink abnormal ones, injections of medicines into the eye to reduce swelling and stop abnormal vessel growth, and sometimes surgery to remove blood from the eye or repair a detached retina.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery (vitrectomy) may be needed if there is significant bleeding into the eye or a retinal detachment.
Living with this condition
You can still live a full life with diabetic retinopathy. Learn strategies to manage vision changes, such as using good lighting, magnifiers, or high-contrast markings. Your healthcare team can help you find low-vision aids.
Lifestyle tips
- Manage diabetes carefully – monitor blood sugar, take medications, and attend regular check-ups.
- Exercise regularly (with your doctor's approval).
- Eat a healthy diet.
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet low in sugar and processed foods, combined with regular physical activity, helps control diabetes and protect your eyes.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Vision loss can be frightening and affect your mood. It is okay to feel anxious or sad. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. You are not alone. If you are in crisis, call your local emergency number.
Prevention
While not always preventable, good diabetes control greatly reduces the risk. Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol can slow or even prevent diabetic retinopathy.
Screening programmes
Regular dilated eye exams: starting five years after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, and at diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, then yearly.
Complications
If left untreated
- Severe vision loss
- Bleeding into the eye (vitreous hemorrhage)
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Blindness
Long-term outlook
With early detection and modern treatments, most people with diabetic retinopathy can maintain good vision. It is a manageable condition, and you can take steps to protect your sight.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 27, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.