Overview
Diabetic retinopathy often causes no symptoms in the early stages. Regular eye checks and good diabetes control can prevent most vision loss.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms early on
- Blurred or patchy vision
- Floaters or dark spots
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sudden vision loss in advanced cases
Causes and risk factors
It is caused by high blood sugar damaging small blood vessels. Long-standing diabetes, poor sugar control, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and pregnancy increase the risk.
Diagnosis
An eye specialist examines the retina after dilating the pupils. Retinal photographs and OCT scans are often used.
Treatment
Good control of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol is key. Advanced disease is treated with laser, eye injections or surgery by an eye specialist.
When to see a doctor
People with diabetes should have an eye check at least once a year. Seek prompt care for sudden changes in vision. Our diabetes team can help you control your sugar and arrange eye screening.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.