Diabetes

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Diabetes

Diabetic Retinopathy

By Debra Manzella, R.N., About.com

Created: August 25, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. When blood glucose levels remain too high for a long period of time, changes can occur in the tiny blood vessels that supply the retina of the eye. A person may notice strange blotches, blurriness, or dark spots in their vision. If this happens, a visit to an eye doctor or specialist is extremely important. If retinopathy is not treated it can lead to blindness.
Examples: Retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes

Explore Diabetes

More from About.com

About.com is accredited by the Health On the Net Foundation, which promotes reliable and trusted online health information.

Diabetes

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Diabetes
  4. Diabetes 101
  5. Glossary of Terms
  6. Retinopathy

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.