This condition is the leading cause of blindness in people ages 20-60 in America today. If diabetic retinopathy is detected early on, blindness can be prevented. The risk of developing diabetic retinopathy is directly proportionate to the length of the illness. Both type I and type II diabetes can lead to retinal damage. Retinopathy usually does not appear for up to five years after a type I diagnosis but may be already present when type II diabetes is diagnosed.
Diabetic retinopathy is a silent attacker.
Severe retinal damage can occur before any symptoms appear. Vision that worsens, improves and worsens. Sudden loss of vision following a coughing or sneezing attack. Seeing spots, streaks or having cone vision. Because some symptoms mimic those of normal aging, most people with macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy do not seek medical help right away.