Diabetic Retinopathy: Overview

Anyone with diabetes is at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. In its early stages, there may be little or no visual symptoms. Without early detection and treatment, diabetic retinopathy can permanently damage the retina.

If the condition is not caught early, it may produce symptoms that affect vision. These include mild blurriness in near or distance vision, floaters, and even the sudden loss of vision. If left untreated, it can cause severe vision loss, and even blindness.

Eye surgeons cannot reverse the damage caused by diabetic retinopathy. But if caught in time, modern treatment options may help slow it progression, and prevent further vision loss.

It is critical for patients with diabetes to be examined on a regular basis, even if they have not noticed any symptoms. If a patient experiences any significant change in their vision, they should contact their doctor for an immediate appointment, even if they recently had an examination.