Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy is the most common form of diabetic eye disease. Diabetic Retinopathy usually only affects people who have had diabetes (diagnosed or undiagnosed) for a significant number of years. 

Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the back of the eye (retina). It can cause blindness if left undiagnosed and untreated. 

However, it usually takes several years for Diabetic Retinopathy to reach a stage where it could threaten your sight.

The risk of developing Diabetic Retinopathy is known to increase with age as well with less well controlled blood sugar and blood pressure level.

Vision Matters have developed a vision simulator, this simulator allows you to experience their website as if you had a particular eye condition. To use the vision simulator please follow the link below, this will take you to the Vision Matters website. The link demonstrates how Diabetic Retinopathy can affect vision, you can remove the simulation by selecting 'Off' at the top of the webpage.

Vision Matters Vision Simulator

For more information about Diabetic retinopathy the NHS website and Diabetes.co.uk have lots of useful information, guidance and support.

Image taken from reachoutradio.org