Diabetic Retinopathy
(Eye damage)
Retinal damage leading to blindness
Diabetic retinopathy
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A disorder of the blood vessels in the retina of the eye, resulting in broken blood vessels in the eye. |
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The disorder occurs most often in patients with long-term, poorly controlled diabetes. |
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Repeated bleeding may result in partial or complete blindness. |
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Treatment is to stop the bleeding of damaged blood vessels by laser beam (photocoagulation). |
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All diabetics are advised to have their eyes examined at least once a year by physicians specializing in diseases of the eye (ophthalmologist). |
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The development of retinopathy can be prevented or slowed by controlling blood sugar levels and blood pressure. |
Diabetic amaurosis
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Blindness linked to diabetes, caused by bleeding into the retina (retinopathy). |
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Cataracts are also common in Type I and Type II diabetes. |