Diabetic Retinopathy Fact Sheet
An example of what someone with Diabetic Retinopathy may see.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the tiny blood vessels inside the retina at the back of the eye are damaged. This can seriously affect vision and in some cases may even cause blindness.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include:
- Blurred or distorted vision that makes it difficult to read standard print, watch television or see people's faces
- Increased sensitivity to glare and difficulty seeing at night
Who is at risk?
People who have diabetes are at risk especially if they have:
- High blood-sugar levels or poorly managed diabetes
- High blood pressure, particularly if they also have kidney disease
- A long history of the illness
Can it be treated?
Laser and other surgical procedures can be conducted to treat diabetic retinopathy. This slows progression of the disease and decreases the risk of vision loss. People with diabetes should ensure they:
- See an eyecare professional regularly
- Take prescribed medicines as instructed
- Control blood-sugar levels and follow a healthy diet
Find out more
Contact us
Call: 1300 84 74 66
TTY: 02 9334 3260
Fax: 02 9747 5993
Website: www.visionaustralia.org
Street Address
NSW and ACT: 4 Mitchell Street, Enfield NSW 2136
Queensland: 37 Kent Street, Woolloongabba Qld 4102
Victoria: 454 Glenferrie Road, Kooyong Vic. 3144
Vision Australia is a living partnership between people who are blind, sighted or have low vision. We are united by our passion that in the future people who are blind or have low vision will have access to and fully participate in every part of life they choose.
This page last updated: 09 February 2009