3 Ways Diabetes Can Affect Your Vision and Eyes

Did you know that people with diabetes are 20 times more likely to get eye diseases than those without it? There are three major eye conditions that diabetics are at risk for: cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease associated with high blood glucose levels. It develops when the body doesn't produce or respond to insulin effectively. Over time, diabetes can lead to potentially irreversible ocular damage. However, by taking care of your blood sugar levels and your eyes, you can prevent vision loss. Annual eye exams are recommended for everyone, but routine screenings are even more important for diabetics.

The 3 Ways Diabetes Impacts Vision

Cataracts

Those with diabetes tend to develop cataracts earlier in life. Characterized by a clouding or fogging of the eye's lens, cataracts impede light from entering the eye and cause blurred vision and glares. Cataract surgery is a very safe and effective treatment option.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases characterized by optic nerve damage. Since it tends to impact peripheral vision first, it often goes unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. However, routine glaucoma screenings can detect warning signs and early treatment can prevent disease progression and vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the small blood vessels on your retina become weakened due to poorly controlled blood sugar. The resulting poor blood circulation causes more abnormal blood vessels to grow, which can bleed or leak fluid, and potentially lead to scar tissue, retinal detachment, and even blindness over time. Often there are no symptoms until the advanced stages of the disease.

The good news is that diabetic eye disease can often be prevented with early detection, proper management of diabetes, and regular diabetic eye exams. Contact St. Clairsville Eyecare in St. Clairsville, Ohio to set up your appointment today. Call (740) 695-0444.