Diabetic retinopathy

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

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

Symptoms

Early symptoms include floaters, blurriness, dark areas of vision, and difficulty perceiving colors. Blindness can occur.

Treatments

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