3 Signs of Developing Diabetes Retinopathy

At Champaign Eye Professionals, we work hard to keep our patients’ eyes as healthy as possible. But sometimes underlying diseases and other conditions can affect eye health in ways that aren’t always preventable. Diabetes is one of those underlying conditions that can cause diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to vision loss or even blindness. This is why it’s so important to let your eye doctor know of all your health conditions, even though they might not directly involve your eyes. When you visit us for a comprehensive eye exam in Champaign, IL, we will look for signs of developing diabetic retinopathy if it’s relevant to your health. In the meantime, here are three signs of developing diabetic retinopathy you can be wary of at home.

1. Blurred or Distorted Vision

One of the early signs of diabetic retinopathy is blurred or distorted vision. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, causing fluid to leak and leading to swelling. This swelling can distort your vision, making it difficult to see clearly or focus on objects.

2. Dark Spots or Floaters

Another common symptom is the appearance of dark spots or floaters in your field of vision. As the blood vessels in the retina become damaged, they may bleed into the eye, creating these floaters. If left untreated, this can lead to more severe vision problems.

3. Difficulty Seeing at Night

People with diabetic retinopathy may experience difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions. As the condition progresses, the retina’s ability to process light diminishes, leading to poor night vision. This symptom can make driving at night or moving through dimly lit areas increasingly challenging.

To book your next eye exam, contact your Champaign, IL eye doctor today. Early diagnosis and treatment for diabetic retinopathy may just save your eyesight!