Several tests may allow doctors to diagnose the condition. The first step is a common eye exam. Getting these at regular intervals is really important for those with risk factors.  

Eye doctors may use the following tests to diagnose diabetic retinopathy: 

• visual acuity test;
• pupil dilation exam; and
• tonometry test. 

The Future of Treating Diabetic Retinopathy 

Surgery may be a common treatment plan for retina problems, but surgery only treats the immediate symptoms; it is not a cure for diabetic retinopathy. It simply slows down the effects of the eye disease and prolongs vision loss as long as possible, according to the Mayo Clinic. 

While treating diabetic retinopathy before it leads to vision loss is imperative, the future of eyecare as it relates to this disease is really dependent on early detection. It is important to test those who are at risk and perform therapies to prevent the blood vessels in the eye from leaking into the retina. Experts hope to improve screening rates to identify at-risk patients.