What is the primary symptom of diabetic retinopathy?

The primary symptom of diabetic retinopathy is distorted or blurred vision. This condition results from damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels, which can lead to swelling, leakage, or even complete closure of these vessels. When the retina is affected, it compromises the way visual information is processed, leading to visual distortions such as blurriness.

As the disease progresses, these distortions may become more pronounced, or even lead to severe vision loss, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring for individuals with diabetes. Other symptoms and changes in vision can develop as the condition worsens, but the initial manifestation often includes blurry or distorted vision. This serves as a critical warning sign for affected individuals to seek further evaluation and potential treatment to prevent more serious vision complications.