What is diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease caused by diabetes. When blood sugar stays high for too long, it damages the tiny blood vessels in the eye (retina). This can lead to blurred vision, vision loss, or even blindness if not treated.

Fundus photograph of a healthy retina — Normal retina

Fundus photograph showing diabetic retinopathy changes — Diabetic retinopathy retina

Side-by-side: a healthy retina vs. changes seen in diabetic retinopathy.

The good news? With early check-ups and treatment, most vision problems can be prevented.

Stages of diabetic retinopathy

There are two main stages:

Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Early stage (NPDR): Blood vessels weaken and leak, causing swelling. You may notice blurred vision.

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Advanced stage (PDR): New weak blood vessels grow, bleed, and can cause serious vision loss or even blindness.

Who is at risk?

You’re more likely to get diabetic retinopathy if you have:

Diabetes for many years
Poor blood sugar control
High blood pressure or high cholesterol
Kidney problems
Smoking habits
Pregnancy (for women with diabetes)

Simulation of normal everyday vision — Normal vision

Simulation of vision affected by diabetic retinopathy — Vision with diabetic retinopathy

Common warning signs

Blurry vision
Dark spots or “floaters”
Empty or dark areas in vision
Faded colors
Sudden vision loss

How it’s detected

The only way to catch it early is with a diabetic eye screening:

Dilated eye exam (pupil widened to check retina)
Retina scan (OCT or fundus photo)
Fluorescein angiography (special dye test, in some cases)

Treatment options

Blood sugar, pressure & cholesterol control
Laser treatment
Eye injections (Anti-VEGF)
Surgery (vitrectomy)

Prevention is possible

Get a yearly diabetic eye screening
Control blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
Exercise, eat well, quit smoking
Treat other health problems early

Key takeaway

Diabetic retinopathy is serious but preventable. With regular eye check-ups and early treatment, you can protect your sight. If you have diabetes, visit your nearest Alpro OptiSaver today!

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