What is one potential symptom of proliferative diabetic retinopathy?

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is characterized by the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to various visual disturbances. One of the classic symptoms associated with this condition is blurry vision and floaters.

The presence of floaters occurs due to the leakage of blood from these newly formed vessels, which can lead to the appearance of dark spots or lines that float in the field of vision. As the disease progresses, the blurry vision results from swelling in the retina or the complications that arise from the abnormal vascular growth, such as traction on the retina, which can obscure or distort vision.

This symptom is significant as it indicates the onset of vascular complications associated with diabetes and serves as a warning sign for patients to seek further evaluation and treatment. Early detection and management can help prevent serious vision loss from proliferative diabetic retinopathy.