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High blood-sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the retina, the nerve layer at the back of the eye that senses light and helps to send images to the brain. The damage to retinal vessels is referred to as diabetic retinopathy.

Types of diabetic retinopathy

There are two types of diabetic retinopathy: nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).

NPDR, commonly known as background retinopathy, is an early stage of diabetic retinopathy. Many people with diabetes have mild NPDR, which usually does not affect their vision.

PDR is present when abnormal new vessels begin growing on the surface of the retina or optic nerve. These new blood vessels are often accompanied by scar tissue that may cause wrinkling or detachment of the retina.

How is diabetic retinopathy treated?

Although laser surgery is recommended for certain types of diabetic retinopathy, the best treatment still is to prevent the development of retinopathy as much as possible. A medical eye examination is the only way to detect changes inside your eye and can often diagnose and treat serious retinopathy before you are aware of any vision problems.

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