The first is a dry form for which there is currently no treatment. The second is a wet form named because the macula area is surrounded by small leaky blood vessels. The wet form may respond to laser treatments. The cause of ARMD is relatively unknown. Diabetic Retinopathy Diabetes is a disease that involves our tissues' inability to use and store sugar leading to many health problems throughout our body, including the eye.
Diabetic retinopathy is due to a weakening of small blood vessels that nourish our retinas.
These blood vessels may begin to leak, swell, or develop new fragile vessels and pathways. These changes can result in a loss of vision if left undetected. Once areas of your retina have been damaged it is usually permanent. Therefore it is essential for you to visit your optometric physician yearly for a retinal evaluation. The risk of diabetic retinopathy can be reduced by taking your prescribed medication, sticking to your diet, exercising regularly, controlling high blood pressure and avoiding excessive alcohol and smoking.