Eye diseases
Diabetic retinopathy: symptoms, prevention and regular eye exams
Diabetic retinopathy affects the blood vessels in the retina — the back part of your eye — because of high blood sugar levels from diabetes. Over time these vessels can leak, swell or become blocked, which can harm your vision.
Urgent: Sudden vision loss is an emergency — go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
What is diabetic retinopathy?
The retina needs a healthy blood supply to work. Long periods of high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels that feed it, and that damage is diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters in your vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- In severe cases, sudden vision loss
How to protect your vision
- Manage your blood sugar levels
- Have regular eye examinations — even when your vision seems fine
- Get checked promptly if you notice any change in your vision
When to see an eye care professional
If you have diabetes and notice any of these symptoms, visit an eye care professional. Early detection and treatment can help prevent serious vision problems.
Frequently asked questions
When to go to a hospital instead
Go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately if you have:
- Sudden loss of vision
- Flashes of light or a shower of new floaters
- Eye injury or chemical splash
- Severe eye pain or a very red, painful eye
- Double vision that comes on suddenly