How Can Diabetes Impact Your Eyes?
how can diabetes impact your eyes

How Can Diabetes Impact Your Eyes?

May 17, 2024

Did you know diabetes can affect more than just your blood sugar levels? 

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to diabetic eye disease, risking vision impairment and even blindness. Knowing how diabetes affects your eyes, spotting the signs of diabetic eye disease, and discovering how to shield your vision are vital for eye health. 

Why act fast on diabetic eye concerns? 

Early detection and proactive measures are vital to safeguarding eye health and preventing complications. Experience clarity through eye surgery in Calgary. Explore ways to ensure the well-being of your eyesight in the face of diabetes-related obstacles. 

How Does Diabetes Affect the Eyes?

There are various ways in which diabetes can impact the eyes.

  1. Damage to Blood Vessels: High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, this damage can cause vision loss or even blindness.
  2. Increased Risk of Other Eye Conditions: Diabetes increases the risk of other eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma. People with diabetes are also more prone to developing these conditions at a younger age.

Eye Diseases Caused by Diabetes

Diabetic eye diseases refer to a collection of eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma, that can occur.

  1. Diabetic Retinopathy: This is the most common diabetic eye disease and occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina.
  2. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): DME is a complication of diabetic retinopathy where fluid leaks into the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision.
  3. Cataracts: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts, in which the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision.
  4. Glaucoma: Diabetes increases the risk of glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.

Diabetic Eye Disease Symptoms

Symptoms of diabetic eye disease may include:

  • Blurred or distorted vision 
  • Floaters or spots in vision
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Fluctuations in vision
  • Partial or total vision loss

How to Safeguard Your Eyes from Diabetic Complications

To protect your eyes from diabetic eye disease:

  1. Control Blood Sugar Levels: Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range can help prevent or delay the onset of diabetic eye disease.
  2. Regular Eye Exams: Schedule comprehensive eye exams with an eye care professional at least once a year or as your doctor recommends. Early detection and treatment of diabetic eye disease are crucial for preserving vision.
  3. Manage Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can exacerbate diabetic eye disease. Work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively.
  4. Quit Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of diabetic eye disease and worsen existing eye conditions. Quitting Smoking can help protect your eyes and overall health.

Regular diabetic eye exams are essential for detecting early signs of eye disease and preserving vision health effectively.

Who is at higher risk for diabetic eye disease?

Certain factors increase the risk of developing diabetic eye disease:

– Poorly controlled diabetes

– Long duration of diabetes

– High blood pressure

– High cholesterol levels

– Pregnancy

– Family history of diabetic eye disease

Clarity Laser Vision: Your Path to Clear Eye Health

Your vision serves as the foundation for all our endeavors, driving our every step. We understand the challenges of managing diabetes and its impact on your eyes. That’s why we’re here—to support you on your journey to clearer vision and better eye health. You’re taking control by prioritizing regular check-ups, healthy habits, and proactive management of your condition. If you ever need guidance or concerns, remember we’re here. Schedule an appointment with our expert eye surgeons in Calgary today. Together, let’s navigate this path towards vibrant, lasting sight.