About this condition
Diabetic retinopathy affects the small blood vessels of the retina in people with diabetes. It may cause no early symptoms yet eventually lead to reduced vision, macular swelling or bleeding inside the eye.
What you should know
Risk is affected by the duration of diabetes and how well the condition is controlled. Diagnosis depends on retinal findings rather than visual acuity alone. Regular screening can detect changes before a person notices any loss of vision.
Symptoms and reasons for assessment
Possible symptoms include blurred vision, floating dark spots, distortion of straight lines or sudden visual deterioration. Nevertheless, vision can seem normal even when changes are present. The absence of symptoms does not replace scheduled retinal checks.
Other possible explanations
Blurred vision may also result from fluctuating glucose, cataracts, macular disorders or retinal vessel occlusion. Bleeding into the vitreous is one potential complication, but not every new floater indicates a vitreous haemorrhage.
How the condition is assessed
An ophthalmologist assesses the retina and macula, dilating the pupil when appropriate. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) can help identify and assess diabetic macular oedema. Additional tests and coordination with the diabetes care team depend on individual findings.
Treatment and follow-up options
Depending on the severity and complications, care may include monitoring, systemic risk-factor control, anti-VEGF injections, laser treatment or referral for vitreoretinal surgery. Not everyone needs injections or an operation; the benefits and risks are discussed after examination.
When urgent care is needed
Sudden loss of sight, a dark curtain across vision, many new floaters or pain after an eye procedure needs urgent ophthalmic assessment rather than a routine booking. Call emergency services on 103 if there is an immediate threat to life.
Related health information
Diseases of the retina and macula; Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the eye; Intravitreal anti-VEGF injections.
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis and tests
Care and treatment approaches
When to seek urgent care
Frequently asked questions
Can diabetic retinopathy be present without symptoms?
Yes. Regular retinal screening is important even when vision feels normal.
Does every patient need anti-VEGF injections?
No. The decision depends on the retinal findings, macular swelling and stage of the condition.
Is a visual acuity test alone enough?
No. Retinal damage may develop before vision becomes noticeably worse; other examinations may be needed.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
