This article is an attempt to help you understand the connection between diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. It will also explain tests and treatments for this condition. There are actually two types of retinopathy that can occur if you have diabetes. The most common type is early or background diabetic retinopathy. In this condition, diabetes has damaged the capillaries of the retina, and microscopic leaks have formed in these vessels.
Leakage causes the retina to swell which interferes with normal vision.
Background diabetic retinopathy may be associated with macula edema. The macula, which enables us to see sharp detail, is the center of the retina, so macular edema can cause problems with central vision. The second type of retinopathy is proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In this condition the capillaries of the retina shut down. These new vessels are very delicate and can rupture and bleed easily.