What condition results from leaking of retinal blood vessels and can cause serious vision distortion in diabetes?

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that arises from changes in the blood vessels of the retina due to diabetes. These changes include the leaking of blood and fluid, which can lead to swelling in the retina, the growth of new abnormal blood vessels, and ultimately damage to the retinal tissue. As the condition progresses, it can cause significant vision distortion, including blurry or fluctuating vision, and in severe cases, can lead to vision loss.

In contrast, cataracts involve the clouding of the eye's lens and are related to aging or other factors, not specifically linked to retinal blood vessel issues. Amblyopia, often referred to as "lazy eye," is a developmental problem where vision does not develop properly, usually in childhood, and is not caused by blood vessel leakage. Corneal ulcers are typically associated with infections or injuries affecting the cornea and do not stem from diabetic complications. Thus, attention to diabetic retinopathy is crucial for individuals with diabetes to manage their risk of vision impairment effectively.