Despite having various causes and symptoms, the diabetic retinopathy classification is done in three forms. These are not types but stages of retinopathy. This means that a person is subject to progression of the condition. This may constantly change over a period of time. The diabetic retinopathy classification is done in three types:
1 . Background retinopathy
The first form is the background retinopathy. This usually begins by an acute swelling in the walls of the blood vessels. These spots are also known as micro aneurysms. They are formed on the retina as well as appear on the walls. There are also small yellow patches that are formed. This may also be a result of exuding protein from the blood stream to the retina. The vision will not be affected directly at this stage of retinopathy. However, constant checks should be done from an ophthalmologist.
2. Non Proliferative retinopathy
In the early stages, it is important to watch out for non proliferative retinopathy. The diagnosis is done at various stages such as mild, severe and moderate. This is very similar to the background retinopathy. This is mainly due to the swelling in blood vessels. It may be blocked by the retina and may be developed into a very severe non proliferative retinopathy. Some of the blood vessels are closed completely due to the swelling. Some larger retinal veins become irregular as they dilate. However, this can also be spread to the center of the retina. This causes macula oedema.
3. Maculopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy.
This leads to a threatening condition known as macula oedma. The blood vessels start leaking and become very delicate. However, the fluids start leaking into the macula. Thus, the straight-ahead vision is operated. This results into blurred vision and swelling. Macula is a very sensitive area and the most common cause of it is the visual impairment.
4. Proliferative retinopathy
After the initial stages of diabetic retinopathy, the proliferative retinopathy is acquired. However, it is important to note that more than half of the patients are affected by maculopathy. They already suffer from proliferative retinopathy. Proliferative retinopathy starts by the blood vessels in the retina becoming blocked. As a result the blood flow to the retina is not sufficient. There is a growth of abnormally sized blood vessels. Thus, the blood vessels become very fragile and delicate. They can be grown easily and can even bleed or leak. The vessels can be easily broken and sudden head movements cause them to break.
Thus, one must know about the diabetic retinopathy classification.
