Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes-related complication that affects the eyes. It occurs when prolonged high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina — the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, these vessels may leak, swell, or grow abnormally, leading to vision impairment or even blindness if untreated.

Diabetic retinopathy often progresses silently. Many patients experience no symptoms in the early stages, even as damage occurs. By the time vision changes are noticed, significant retinal damage may have already taken place.

This is why doctors recommend that every diabetic patient undergo a retina screening at least once every 6–12 months, regardless of whether their vision feels normal.