Diabetes—a disease that occurs when the pancreas does not secrete enough insulin or the body is unable to process it properly—is a major risk factor for serious eye conditions. Diabetics are more likely to develop eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts, but the disease's impact on the retina is the main threat to vision, a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy.

This condition has two major types. Nonproliferative retinopathy is the most common. In this stage, the arteries in the retina become weakened and they leak and form tiny aneurysms. The retina becomes cloudy and vision decreases.

The next stage is known as proliferative retinopathy. Circulation problems cause areas of the retina to become oxygen-deprived, and new, fragile vessels—which are prone to hemorrhaging—develop. Blood can leak into the retina, decreasing vision and causing spots or floaters. In later stages, retinal detachment or glaucoma may occur.

A diabetic's retina can be badly damaged before a change in vision is noticed. It's important to have eye exams on a regular basis and keep blood sugar at a normal level. The sooner retinopathy is diagnosed and treated, the more likely the outcome will be successful.

The most common type of retinopathy surgery is called retinal photocoagulation. It involves using a laser aimed at damaged retinal tissue in the peripheral area of the patient's vision. This procedure halts growth of fragile vessels and seals leaking ones.

When the retina has already detached or major hemorrhaging has occurred, vitrectomy (a procedure to remove scar tissue and cloudy fluid from the eye) is the best treatment option. Laser surgery is often used to repair torn retinas; depending on the severity, detached retinas can usually be successfully reattached.

For more information on eye treatment for diabetes:
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