Diabetic retinopathy is a disease that leads to blurry, distorted vision and blindness. It occurs when diabetes weakens blood vessels inside your eye. These weak vessels leak fluid into an area of the eye called the retina. New, distorted vessels may grow, then bleed. These vessels can damage area of the retina, causing vision loss.

• Diabetes is the cause of Diabetic Retinopathy Over time, diabetes makes blood vessels weaken all over the body, including in the eyes. Other things can combine with diabetes to make the disease worse. These include pregnancy, high blood pressure, and smoking.

• You can have diabetic retinopathy without knowing it. Usually, there is no pain and no outward sign. Over time, you may notice gradual blurring or some vision loss. Symptoms may come and go. If diabetic retinopathy is severe, you may have clouded vision or blindness.

• Have regular eye exams to help your doctor detect changes in your eyes before your vision is damaged. Take steps to prevent or control diabetic retinopathy:
  • Control your diabetes
  • Quit smoking
  • Control high blood pressure