Individuals with diabetes often experience complications directly related to their eyes. One of the most serious medical problems that can arise in this area is diabetic retinopathy. This occurs when the retina of the eye experiences damage from the diabetes. The retina is a group, or many describe it as a "layer" of nerves that sit on the very back of the eyeball. This is much like a camera that shoots a picture and provides the brain with an image of what it saw. Individuals who suffer from retinopathy will experience complications with this process.

The retina contains vessels of blood that can actually split due to their sensitivity. When and if this occurs, the fluid from the vessels could drip down into the compounds of the eye. A number of problems can be result. First, it is likely to experience obstruction in the field of vision. Eventually, tissue that is referred to as "scar" may start to develop in and around the eyeball. This can actually cause the retina to experience a form of detachment from its normal resting area.

The damage that is caused by diabetic retinopathy is directly related to the impact of high levels of sugar in the blood. The true complication occurs as a result of the fact that the symptoms that are experienced with this condition are often only experienced once it has reached an extreme height of severity. In other words, you may not know you have a problem until it is too late to correct. This is why it is essential that a regular checkup from an eye doctor is done on an annual basis. If you are a sufferer of diabetes, it is even more important to ensure that you visit an eye doctor at least once per year. Problems can be identified prior to becoming troublesome.

There are many symptoms that may indicate that there is a complication with the eyes. Basically, any changes in the field of vision should be investigated. If you notice symptoms in the actual eye itself, this too, should be checked out. Many individuals may experience either black or white floaters that appear for no apparent reason. There are some who may find that their vision is weak. Blurry vision and double vision may also be experienced when suffering from this condition. The actual vision may become hindered as well. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to make an appointment with an eye doctor immediately.

Many times, an individual who experiences diabetic retinopathy will observe the eye and find that treatment is not necessary. However, if vision complications are experienced, there are some treatment options available. The treatments are intended to reduce the amount of vision loss that is being experienced. Surgical procedures are one method of relief. Prescription medication and treatments by laser are also safe treatment methods for this condition. Discussing your treatment options with a doctor is essential.