Diabetes can have significant effects on the eyes, potentially leading to vision problems or even blindness if not managed properly. Here’s an overview of the main ways diabetes can affect eye health:
Diabetic Retinopathy
- Cause: High blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye).
- Effects:
- Swelling, leakage, or blockage of blood vessels.
- Formation of abnormal blood vessels, which may rupture and bleed (proliferative diabetic retinopathy).
- In advanced stages, scar tissue can cause retinal detachment.
- Symptoms:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision.
- Dark spots or strings (floaters) in vision.
- Vision loss.
Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)
- Cause: Swelling in the macula (the central part of the retina) due to fluid leakage from damaged blood vessels.
- Effects:
- Central vision impairment, making it difficult to read or recognize faces.
- Symptoms:
- Blurry vision.
- Colors appearing washed out.
Cataracts
- Cause: Diabetes can cause earlier and faster clouding of the lens compared to non-diabetics.
- Effects:
- Hazy or blurry vision.
- Increased sensitivity to glare.
- Symptoms:
- Gradual loss of clear vision.
- Difficulty seeing at night.
Glaucoma
- Cause: Increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve. Diabetics have a higher risk of developing glaucoma.
- Effects:
- Peripheral (side) vision loss.
- Symptoms:
- Gradual narrowing of vision (tunnel vision).
- Eye pain and redness in severe cases.
Refractive Changes
- Cause: Fluctuating blood sugar levels can temporarily change the shape of the eye’s lens.
- Effects:
- Temporary blurry vision.
- Difficulty focusing.
- Symptoms:
- Vision changes that come and go with blood sugar levels.
Dry Eyes
- Cause: Reduced tear production due to nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) or inflammation.
- Effects:
- Eye irritation or discomfort.
- Symptoms:
- Grittiness, burning, or redness.
If you experience any changes in vision or eye discomfort, consult an ophthalmologist promptly. Early intervention can prevent or minimize damage.
