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Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Diabetes causes high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood, which can damage the small blood vessels in the retina over time. This damage can cause the blood vessels to leak fluid or bleed, which can lead to swelling and damage to the retina. In some cases, new blood vessels may grow on the surface of the retina, which can also cause damage and lead to vision loss. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy may include blurred vision, seeing spots or floaters, difficulty seeing at night, and a loss of peripheral vision. In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause any noticeable symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are important for people with diabetes. Treatment for diabetic retinopathy may include laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels, injections of medication to slow the growth of new blood vessels, and surgery in more advanced cases. Prevention and management of diabetic retinopathy involves good blood sugar control, blood pressure control, and regular eye exams.