What is retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy means changes to the retina (the seeing part at the back of the eye) and is a complication that can affect anyone who has diabetes.
To see, light must be able to pass through to the retina without anything getting in its way.
Retinopathy is caused when the blood vessels in the retina become blocked or leaky, or grow haphazardly, which can damage the retina and prevent it from working properly.
You may not be aware of changes to the retina until your vision has been impaired, and this is why you must have your eyes screened every year.
Retinal screening with a digital camera every year will pick up the earliest signs of retinopathy developing and is essential for everyone with diabetes.
Retinopathy can permanently damage your vision if left untreated. Early detection is the key to successful treatment.