Symptom 11. Blind Spots
Blind spots, or scotomas, are areas in your visual field where vision is either partially or entirely lost. They can occur as a symptom of diabetic retinopathy, making it difficult to see specific parts of your environment. Blind spots may be small and barely noticeable or large enough to significantly impact your daily activities, such as reading or driving.
High blood sugar levels in diabetes can damage the blood vessels within the retina, leading to the formation of abnormal, fragile blood vessels. These vessels can leak fluid and blood into the eye, causing the retina to swell or detach partially. When this occurs, the affected areas of the retina may no longer process light effectively, resulting in blind spots in your vision.
If you notice blind spots in your vision, it’s essential to consult with an eye care professional as soon as possible. A comprehensive eye exam can determine if diabetic retinopathy is causing the issue and recommend appropriate treatment options to address the problem and protect your vision.
