Introduction to Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy
What was the first thing you thought about when diagnosed with diabetes? You probably experienced a wide-ranging mix of emotions and wondered how this news would affect the rest of your life. Your family might have had similar feelings.
Diabetes is a complex condition that warrants serious attention. Talk about your concerns and feelings with your doctor, family, and friends—together, learn the facts.
While there is no cure for diabetes, its potential day-to-day impact can be dramatically reduced by learning how to manage your medical situation, understanding what will and will not improve your condition, and doing as much as possible to help yourself. Self-help is key!
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. It can cause “blind spots,” blurry vision, and vision loss. Vision may change from day to day or even from morning to evening. This “fluctuating vision” can interfere with many, if not most, everyday activities.
Early detection, appropriate and ongoing treatment, and the availability of specialized low vision and vision rehabilitation services can help people with diabetic retinopathy live productive and satisfying lives.
New to vision loss? Our Getting Started Kit can help with living with vision loss from diabetes.