Early detection of diabetic eye disease
Diabetic eye disease is a leading cause for blindness registration among working age adults in England and Wales. It is caused by changes to the tiny blood vessels of the retina (the light sensitive layer at the back of the eye). Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is caused by abnormal new blood vessels that grow on the surface of the retina. This is the most advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy. At this stage, you may not have symptoms but are at high risk for vision loss.
- More information on diabetic retinopathy in EuroTimes article here
- Download PDF from Moorfields with more information on diabetic retinopathy here
In diabetic macular oedema, blood vessels leak fluid into the retina. Vision loss occurs when the fluid reaches the macula (the centre of the retina that provides sharp vision) and builds up, causing swelling. At first, you may not notice changes to your vision. Over time, diabetic macular oedema can cause your central vision to become blurred. A healthy macula is essential for good vision.
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