Vision Library > Visual Deseases > Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes, is the damage to the retina due to leakage from the fine retinal blood vessels. The majority of these changes are symptomless until extreme stages.  Keeping you blood sugar levels under control will help decrease the risk of complications.  When retinal changes become sight threatening, laser treatment or surgical intervention may be necessary. 
Diabetics should be followed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist annually or sooner if recommended.  More information is available at the Canadian Diabetes Association (http://www.diabetes.ca/diabetes-and-you/living/complications/vision-health/) website.