Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy is the name given to the changes in the retina of the eye which can occur over time in people who have diabetes. However, having diabetes does not necessarily mean you will lose sight.

Good control of your diabetes helps prevent diabetic retinopathy.

Representation of the effect of diabetic retinopathy

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

The Retina covers the interior of the back of the eye and is made up of the light sensitive cells used for vision. The retina is fed by a network of tiny blood vessels. In diabetic retinopathy the walls of these blood vessels become fragile and start to break, leaking blood around them. The amount of blood that leaks is very small and the symptoms may be floating spots in front of the eyes or areas of blurring. Sometimes these clear up without treatment.

Eventually, the blood vessels may stop carrying blood permanently, and so the cells in the retina will die from lack of nourishment. When the old blood vessels stop working, new ones grow to take their place. These new blood vessels are even more leaky but are not able to nourish the retina and may grow into the inner part of the eye (the vitreous) and cause further sight loss.

Treatment is most usually carried out with laser equipment which uses a beam of high intensity light, focussed with extreme precision, to seal the haemorrhages on the retina, to halt further deterioration.

Regular Eye Checks are important for people with diabetes, as early diagnosis of retinopathy may help in keeping problems to a minimum.

Living with Diabetic Retinopathy

• Vision may be patchy and blurred and may change from day to day or even hour to hour

• Lighting is important

• Avoid glare, light shining directly into the eyes or reflecting back off a shiny surface

• Wear a visor or hat with brim in bright sun

• Sunglasses may help

• For close work try direct light from an adjustable lamp

For further information and advice on diabetes contact:

Diabetes UK South East
Blenheim House
1 Blenheim Road
Epsom
Surrey
KT19 9AP
Telephone: 01372 720 148
Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Web: http://www.diabetes.org.uk/