Diabetic Retinopathy

What is diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the retina of the eye due to long-term high blood sugars. The damage can be bleeding or swelling of the retina and in severe cases can lead to blindness from retinal detachment and glaucoma. Diabetic retinopathy is uncommon in children, even when the diabetes is diagnosed at a young age. 

What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is usually painless and does not have symptoms. In some cases, you may have blurry or decreased vision. 

How is diabetic retinopathy diagnosed?

All children and adults with diabetes should have annual eye examinations including dilation of the pupils. A dilated examination is the main way to detect diabetic retinopathy

What is the treatment for diabetic retinopathy?

The best treatment is prevention by maintaining good blood sugar and blood pressure control. Early diabetic retinopathy does not usually need treatment. Swelling or extensive bleeding in the retina can require eye injections, laser and surgery.