How does background diabetic retinopathy cause problems?
One clearly defined problem, among many complex changes, involves pericytes. These cells in the blood flow in capillaries, the smallest blood vessel wall most likely regulate blood flow in capillaries, the smallest blood vessels. When diabetes causes the body to mishandle the way it absorbs sugar, this improper sugar metabolism damages pericytes. The malfunctioning pericytes then cause loss of circulation, damage occurs, and other changes may start. For instance, leaking fluid may cause swelling in the central retinal area (the macular) and sharp vision may fade.
