Diabetic retinopathy

Description

A complication of diabetes that affects the eyes.

Overview

Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the tissue at the back of the eye, called the retina. Poorly controlled blood sugar is a risk factor.

Symptoms

Early symptoms include floaters, blurriness, dark areas of vision and having a hard time with perceiving colors. Blindness can eventually happen.

Treatments

Mild cases may be treated with careful diabetes management. Advanced cases may need laser treatment or surgery.