Eyes, ears, nose & throatComplication of diabetesICD-10 E11.3
Diabetic retinopathy
Damage to retinal blood vessels from diabetes; a leading cause of blindness in working-age adults, preventable with screening and treatment.
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Causes
- Chronic high blood glucose damaging retinal capillaries
Risk factors
- Duration of diabetes
- Poor glucose control
- High blood pressure
- Pregnancy
- Kidney disease
Symptoms
- Usually none until advanced
- Blurred vision
- Floaters
- Sudden vision loss from bleeding
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Annual retinal photography screening
- OCT for macular oedema
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Anti-VEGF injections for macular oedema
- Tighter glucose and blood-pressure control
Operations and procedures
- Laser photocoagulation
- Vitrectomy for bleeding or detachment
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Attend screening
- Control glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol
Possible complications
- Macular oedema
- Vitreous haemorrhage
- Retinal detachment
- Blindness
Prevention
- Good diabetes control and screening
Outlook
Early treatment prevents most severe vision loss.
When to see a doctor
Everyone with diabetes needs annual eye screening; seek urgent care for sudden vision loss.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
Educational overview, not medical advice. Treatment varies by person and location. Consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis or care. Read our content and model notes and privacy information.