What is it?

Diabetic retinopathy is one of several eye problems to which diabetics may be susceptible.

Specifically, diabetic retinopathy is a weakening of the blood vessels that nourish the eye's retina.

The weakened blood vessels may swell and leak fluid. Or, new vessels - to compensate for the weakened ones - may grow on the retina's surface.

These changes can lead to vision impairment or blindness.

Who is affected?

Everyone with diabetes - Type 1 and Type 2 - is susceptible to diabetic retinopathy.

It is estimated that nearly half of those with diabetes will develop some level of diabetic retinopathy in their lifetime.

Symptoms

Everyone with diabetes - Type 1 and Type 2 - is susceptible to diabetic retinopathy.

It is estimated that nearly half of those with diabetes will develop some level of diabetic retinopathy in their lifetime.

Diagnosis

Ocular hypertension is detected through a compreshensive eye exam that includes a tonometer test.

The tonometer uses a painless "puff" of air to read internal eye pressure. It can help spot early signs of ocular hypertension.

While not everyone with ocular hypertension will develop glaucoma, ocular hypertension is an added risk factor for glaucoma.

Treatment

While there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy and lost vision cannot be restored, there are treatments to protect you against further vision loss.

If the problem is caught before the retina is severely damaged, laser surgery can shrink the abnormal vessels. In addition, vitrectomy may be appropriate in certain situations where the vitreous has become cloudy.

Both of these procedures can be successful; however, the best defense against diabetic retinopathy is early detection through regular eye examinations.