Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the retina — the light-sensitive layers at the back of the eye. When blood sugar levels are high or fluctuate over time, they can damage the tiny blood vessels that supply the retina. This damage may become irreversible and can lead to vision loss or even blindness if not treated.

Diabetic retinopathy usually affects both eyes and often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. This is why regular eye examinations are so important for people with diabetes.

In the early stage, known as non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the walls of the small retinal blood vessels leak fluid or blood into the retina, sometimes leading to blurred vision.

As the condition progresses to the proliferative stage, fragile new blood vessels begin to grow within the retina. These abnormal vessels can rupture easily and bleed into the eye, causing a sudden and sometimes severe drop in vision.

If left untreated, the growth of new blood vessels can stimulate scar tissue formation. This scar tissue may pull on the retina and cause it to detach from the back of the eye — a serious condition known as retinal detachment. Even with urgent and highly specialised surgery, vision may not be fully restored.

Early detection through regular eye checks offers the best chance to prevent vision loss. Managing the underlying causes of retinal damage is critical.

The most important preventive measures include:

• Keeping blood sugar levels within your target range
• Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
• Maintaining regular physical activity

Better overall diabetes control can significantly slow the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy.

If changes are detected, treatment may involve:

• Laser treatment to seal leaking blood vessels and reduce the growth of abnormal vessels
• Injections of medication into the eye to reduce swelling or block abnormal vessel growth
• Surgery in advanced cases, particularly if there is significant bleeding or retinal detachment

Because diabetic retinopathy often has no early warning signs, regular comprehensive eye examinations are essential. With early detection and proper management, most vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented.