12 May How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes
Diabetes doesn’t just affect your blood sugar; it can also cause serious problems with your eyes. If you have diabetes, it’s important to understand how it can change your vision and what you can do to protect it.
What Happens to Your Eyes?
When your blood sugar is too high for too long, it can damage the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. These vessels bring oxygen and nutrients to your retina, which helps you see. When they’re damaged, your retina can’t work the way it should.
This damage can lead to eye problems such as:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Floaters or dark spots
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sudden vision loss
One of the most serious problems caused by diabetes is diabetic retinopathy. Over time, it can lead to vision loss or even blindness if not treated early.
What Eye Conditions Are Linked to Diabetes?
People with diabetes are at a higher risk for:
- Diabetic Retinopathy – Damaged blood vessels in the retina that can leak or swell
- Glaucoma – Higher pressure inside the eye that can damage the optic nerve
- Cataracts – Cloudy lenses that make your vision blurry or dim
Read more about Cataracts: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options to learn how they affect your sight.
Why Eye Exams Are So Important
Even if your vision seems fine, eye problems can start without any symptoms. That’s why people with diabetes need regular eye exams. These check-ups allow your eye doctor to spot early signs of damage and begin treatment before vision loss happens.
Learn more about how we use Retinal Screening to Monitor Ocular Disease.
How to Protect Your Vision
Here are some ways to keep your eyes healthy if you have diabetes:
- Keep your blood sugar levels under control
- Get regular eye exams
- Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol in check
- Tell your eye doctor if you notice any changes in your vision
Taking care of your overall health goes a long way in protecting your eyes.
Don’t wait for vision problems to get worse. Schedule your diabetic eye exam today and keep your eyes healthy.