How Diabetes Can Affect the Eyes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that impacts millions worldwide, often bringing serious complications to light—literally. One of the most significant yet overlooked risks of diabetes is its effect on eye health. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can damage the eyes in multiple ways, making proactive care essential for preserving your vision.
Diabetes primarily harms the eyes by damaging the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that processes visual information. Prolonged high blood sugar weakens these vessels, leading to several vision-threatening conditions:
- Diabetic Retinopathy
The most common diabetes-related eye disease, diabetic retinopathy, occurs when blood vessels in the retina leak, swell or become blocked. Early stages often show no symptoms, but as the condition progresses, you may experience blurred vision, dark spots, floaters, or vision loss.
- Cataracts
While cataracts are commonly associated with aging, diabetes increases the risk of developing them earlier. Cataracts cloud the eye’s lens, causing blurry or dim vision, difficulty seeing at night and sensitivity to light.
- Glaucoma
Diabetes also raises the likelihood of glaucoma, a condition where increased eye pressure damages the optic nerve. Often symptomless in its early stages, glaucoma can result in irreversible vision loss if untreated.
Protecting your vision starts with effectively managing your diabetes and overall health. Here’s how:
- Control Blood Sugar: Keeping your blood sugar within the target range reduces the risk of eye complications. High blood sugar weakens retinal blood vessels, so consistent monitoring is essential.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Elevated levels can worsen diabetic eye diseases, so keeping them in check is vital.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the likelihood of developing diabetic retinopathy and other complications. Quitting benefits both your eye health and overall well-being.
- Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C and E support eye health.
- Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Annual comprehensive eye exams can detect issues like diabetic retinopathy or macular edema before symptoms appear, allowing for early intervention.
Retinal exams are critical for uncovering diabetic eye diseases that often develop without noticeable symptoms. Early detection enables timely treatment, such as laser therapy or injections, to prevent or minimize vision loss.
Your vision is too important to take for granted. Don’t wait for symptoms to arise—schedule a comprehensive eye exam today. Contact Associated Retina Consultants at 602-242-4928 or visit WEBSITE to learn more about protecting your eyes from diabetes-related complications.