What eye health condition is characterized by damage to the retina due to high blood sugar levels?

Diabetic retinopathy is the condition characterized by damage to the retina as a result of prolonged high blood sugar levels, which is commonly associated with diabetes. Over time, elevated blood glucose can lead to changes in the blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak fluid or bleed. This can impair vision and, if left untreated, may lead to serious vision loss or blindness. The progression of diabetic retinopathy typically occurs in stages, starting with mild nonproliferative retinopathy and potentially advancing to more severe forms.

Cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and retinal detachment are eye health conditions, but they are caused by different mechanisms and do not specifically relate to high blood sugar levels. Understanding diabetic retinopathy is crucial for managing eye health in individuals with diabetes and highlights the importance of regular eye examinations to detect and treat the condition early.