Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common causes of blindness today. The structure of blood vessels deteriorates and small bubbles (microaneurysms) occur, causing bleeding and leakage of fluid into the surrounding tissues. In the later stages, unwanted new vascularization occurs on the retina and causes sudden intraocular bleeding.
Vision loss usually does not develop in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. Over time, as the disease progresses, decreased vision begins to appear. In other words, diabetic retinopathy may be present in a diabetic patient who does not have low vision. Therefore, regular eye examination is required. Diabetic retinopathy usually occurs in both eyes.
