Diabetic Retinopathy is when high levels of blood sugar damage the blood vessels in the retina which can lead to vision loss. It can affect both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics. Prolonged elevation of blood sugar damages the vascular lining of the retina’s blood vessels, causing them to leak. The accumulation of this fluid can lead to swelling which leads to vision loss. If you have diabetes, you should be aware of the risks of diabetic retinopathy and what you can do to prevent or treat it. Forms of Retinopathy The most common form of retinopathy is non-proliferative. In this form, the capillaries in the back of the eye expand, forming pouches. These pouches (microaneurysms) eventually lead to leakage of the capillary walls and this leaking fluid causes swelling and vision loss. The most common area that fills with liquid is called the macula which is responsible for visual acuity. This condition is referred to as macular edema. If caught in time, treatment to stop and reverse the edema is usually effective.