Diabetes is a health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can affect various aspects of their well-being, including eyesight.
The relationship between diabetes and vision health is complex, with the potential to lead to several serious eye conditions if not properly managed.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, detection methods, and the importance of regular eye check-ups is essential for anyone living with diabetes.
How does diabetes affect eyesight?
Diabetes affects eyesight by causing changes in blood vessels within the eye or by prompting the growth of new, abnormal vessels in the retina which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.
The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage these tiny vessels, leading to diabetic eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema (DMO). Cataracts and glaucoma can also occur more often in diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetes affecting eyesight
Symptoms of diabetic eye diseases can vary depending on the condition but may include:
Blurred or fluctuating vision
Spots or dark strings floating in your vision (floaters)
Vision loss
It's critical to note that in the early stages, diabetic eye diseases often exhibit no symptoms. This silent progression underscores the importance of regular eye examinations for early detection.
Detecting diabetic eye diseases
Diabetes poses significant risks to eyesight, making regular eye check-ups an essential component of diabetes management. Through early detection, appropriate treatment, and ongoing monitoring, individuals with diabetes can protect their vision and maintain a high quality of life.
Early detection of diabetic eye diseases involves a comprehensive eye exam that includes:
Vision testing
Dilated eye exam to closely examine the retina and optic nerve
Tonometry to measure eye pressure, important for glaucoma detection
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to obtain detailed images of the retina, aiding in the diagnosis of DMO and retinal changes due to diabetes
For individuals with diabetes, it's recommended to have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision loss.
How Maculara can help your eye health if you have diabetes
The team at Maculara are experts in the landscape of ophthalmic care, offering a comprehensive array of interventions designed to address the full spectrum of age-related eye conditions, allowing you to take an active role in safeguarding your vision.
Regular eye check-ups are vital for individuals with diabetes. These exams not only facilitate the early detection and treatment of diabetic eye diseases but also provide an opportunity to monitor and manage the progression of these conditions.
By maintaining tight control over blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, individuals can significantly lower their risk of developing serious eye problems.