Diabetes

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that arises as a complication of diabetes. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, this damage can lead to vision impairment and even blindness if left untreated.

Types of Diabetic Retinopathy

There are two main types of diabetic retinopathy: nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). NPDR is the early stage of the disease, characterized by the weakening of blood vessels in the retina. PDR, on the other hand, is more advanced and involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels on the retina's surface.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not present any noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, individuals may experience symptoms such as:

• Blurred or distorted vision
• Floaters or dark spots in the field of vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Sudden loss of vision

Regular monitoring allows diabetics to keep their blood sugar levels within target ranges recommended by healthcare providers. This control is essential for preventing both short-term complications like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), as well as long-term complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and cardiovascular issues.

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