ImportantRetina
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes-related changes in the retinal blood vessels that need professional monitoring.
What is it?
Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels of the retina caused by long-term high blood sugar. It may have no early symptoms, which is why regular eye check-ups are important for people with diabetes.
Common symptoms
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Difficulty with colour perception
- Vision loss in advanced stages
Risk factors
- Poorly controlled blood sugar (high HbA1c)
- Long duration of diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Pregnancy with diabetes
Prevention tips
- Maintain good blood sugar control
- Monitor and control blood pressure and cholesterol
- Have a dilated eye examination at least once a year
- Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
- Do not smoke
Treatment overview
Optimising blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol control is essential. Treatments include laser photocoagulation, intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, and vitrectomy surgery for advanced proliferative disease or vitreous haemorrhage.
Seek urgent care if you notice
- Sudden vision loss
- Severe or worsening eye pain
Related eye care tips
Have questions about your eyes?
This information is general education and does not replace a professional eye examination. If you are worried about your eyes, book an appointment.