Hi Nina,
I was also told recently that I have background retinopathy. I panicked a lot at first, but something that really helped me - although it may not help you - was seeing the actual scans. I have one larger bleed that is likely to stay put, and two smaller bleeds that might resolve themselves. Apparently, when they first see it, it is likely not 'stable', so those bleeds may well not be there next time they look.
In short, don't worry too much. What was your last Hba1c? Is there any possibility that it could come down a bit?
I think
@himtoo may be more knowledgeable?