People with diabetes risk developing eye complications. High blood sugar levels can increase the risk of developing diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, glaucoma, and cataracts. If not treated, the conditions can lead to vision loss. It usually takes several years for diabetic-related eye diseases to cause severe complications.

 

How Diabetes Affects the Eyes

The light-sensitive cells (retina) at the back of the eye convert the light entering the eye into electrical signals. The brain receives the signals and transforms them into images. For effective function, the retina needs a constant blood supply through tiny blood vessels.

Constant high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes can damage the blood vessels. The damage can result in the formation of new blood vessels on the retina that are weak and bleed into the eye. The new vessels and scar tissue can lead to vision problems.

 

Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy

Any individual with diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy. There is an increased risk if:

• You have had diabetes for years

• You have persistently high blood glucose levels

• You have high cholesterol

• You have high blood pressure

• You are pregnant

Maintaining healthy blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels can reduce your risk of developing diabetes-related eye diseases.

 

Symptoms of Diabetes-Related Eye Conditions

Most eye diseases do not have symptoms in their early stages. Symptoms become obvious during the advanced stages of the disease. Symptoms include:

• Blurry or patchy vision

• Gradual worsening of vision

• Floaters in the field of vision

• Sudden vision loss

• Eye pain or redness

If you experience symptoms, visit your eye doctor for a checkup. Diabetic eye screening can detect signs of diabetic retinopathy in the early stages.

 

Diabetes and Permanent Vision Loss 

Diabetes can cause damage to the eyes over time. Failing to detect and treat eye problems can lead to vision loss and blindness. During the advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy (proliferative), the retina grows new, fragile blood vessels.

Bleeding from the new vessels can block vision. The condition can lead to scar tissue formation, which can cause retinal detachment. Fortunately, managing your diabetes and scheduling regular eye exams can help protect your eyesight.
 

Regular Diabetic Eye Exam

Every individual with diabetes should get regular eye screenings. An eye exam can help detect signs of diabetic retinopathy and other eye diseases. If not detected and treated early, they can lead to vision loss or permanent blindness.

Exams can detect problems before the eyes are affected. Annual exams are recommended for patients 12 years of age and older. During the exam, eye specialists check the back of the eye for signs of abnormal growth.

Managing diabetes is the best way to protect your vision and eye health. There are several treatment options for diabetes-related eye diseases. Doctors recommend treatment depending on the symptoms and stage of the disease. The options include medications, laser treatment, and eye surgery.

For more information on diabetic eye problems, visit Premier Eye Care at our office in Fort Worth, Texas. Call (817) 428-2020 to book an appointment today.