There are often no symptoms or discomfort associated with the early onset of diabetic retinopathy. If you have diabetes (either type 1 or type 2) then you shouldn’t wait for symptoms but should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. The most common symptoms of diabetic retinopathy are:
- Blurred vision and gradual loss of vision over time
- Floaters
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Shadows or missing vision over time
As the condition advances, blurred vision may occur when the macula swells. If blood vessels grow on the retina they can bleed into the eye and block vision. If you see any signs of blurring, if there are specks of blood or spots in your eye or if you experience deterioration in vision then you need to contact your eyesore professional as soon as possible. While early onset diabetic retinopathy does not typically display any symptoms an ophthalmologist will be able to detect the signs. Frequent comprehensive eye exams are vital if you are at risk for diabetic retinopathy. Blindness can be prevented if diagnosed early.
Learn more about causes of diabetic retinopathy
