Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that arises as a complication of diabetes. It primarily affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, which is crucial for vision. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage these tiny vessels, leading to leakage, swelling, or even abnormal blood vessel growth. This condition is a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness among adults, making awareness and early detection essential.
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of diabetic retinopathy is prolonged high blood glucose, which damages retinal blood vessels. The risk is higher in individuals who have had diabetes for many years. Other contributing factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, pregnancy, and genetic predisposition. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients are at risk, though type 2 diabetes often goes undiagnosed for years, increasing…