Diabetic retinopathy causes damage to the blood vessels of the retina and can result in loss of vision. Anyone who has either type 1 or type 2 diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy. The longer a person has diabetes the greater the risk is of developing diabetic retinopathy. Extended periods of high blood sugar levels can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina. Damaged blood vessels can begin to leak which can cause haemorrhages. These blood vessels can eventually become blocked off which can cause the retina to be starved for oxygen. This can lead to the growth of new abnormal blood vessels and can also cause damage to the retina.
In order to prevent diabetic retinopathy, good control of diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure is essential.
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