Diabetes is a complex condition that affects many parts of the body, including the eyes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the delicate structures of the eye, leading to blurry vision, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and even vision loss. Fortunately, with proper management and routine eye exams, many diabetes-related vision problems can be prevented or treated early.
At Advanced Vision Consultants, we provide expert care to help patients protect their vision.
How Does Diabetes Affect the Eyes?
Diabetes impacts vision by affecting blood vessels in the retina and altering fluid levels in the eye. Fluctuations in blood sugar can lead to swelling, leaking blood vessels, and damage to the retina, all of which can impact how well you see.
Common diabetes-related eye conditions include:
1. Diabetic Retinopathy
One of the most serious eye complications of diabetes, diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. This can lead to bleeding, swelling, and scar tissue formation, which may result in permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Floaters (dark spots in your vision)
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Vision loss in advanced stages
Regular dilated eye exams at Advanced Vision Consultants are essential for detecting retinopathy early before significant damage occurs.
2. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)
DME occurs when fluid builds up in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. This swelling can cause:
- Blurry or wavy vision
- Colors appearing washed out
- Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
Macular edema can occur at any stage of diabetic retinopathy and requires prompt treatment to prevent vision loss.
3. Blurry Vision from Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Sudden changes in blood sugar levels can cause temporary blurry vision by affecting fluid levels in the eye's lens. When blood sugar stabilizes, vision usually returns to normal, but persistent blurriness could indicate a more serious problem.
4. Cataracts
People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cataracts, which cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy. Cataracts can make vision blurry, dull, and difficult to see in bright light. While cataracts are a common part of aging, diabetes can accelerate their development.
5. Glaucoma
Diabetes also increases the risk of glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure. Glaucoma often has no early symptoms but can lead to gradual vision loss if not detected and managed early.
How to Protect Your Vision with Diabetes
While diabetes can pose a threat to vision, proactive steps can help protect eye health:
1. Keep Blood Sugar Under Control
Consistently managing blood sugar levels reduces the risk of diabetic eye disease. Work with your doctor to maintain healthy A1C levels and avoid sharp blood sugar fluctuations.
2. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Annual dilated eye exams at Advanced Vision Consultants allow for early detection of diabetic eye conditions. If you already have diabetes-related vision changes, more frequent exams may be necessary.
3. Monitor Blood Pressure & Cholesterol
High blood pressure and cholesterol can worsen diabetic eye conditions by increasing damage to the blood vessels in the eyes. Keeping these levels in check supports long-term eye health.
4. Wear Protective Eyewear
Protecting your eyes from excessive UV exposure and digital strain can help maintain vision. UV-blocking sunglasses and blue light-filtering lenses are great options to reduce stress on the eyes.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants can help support retinal health. Regular exercise also improves circulation, which benefits the eyes.
Visit Our Eye Doctors in Cherry Hill, Deptford Township, & Marlton, NJ
If you have diabetes and notice sudden vision changes, floaters, flashes of light, or increased blurriness, schedule an eye exam immediately at Advanced Vision Consultants. These symptoms could indicate the early stages of diabetic retinopathy or other serious eye conditions.
Take Control of Your Eye Health with Advanced Vision Consultants
Diabetes can affect vision, but with proper care, you can protect your eyesight and reduce the risk of complications. Routine eye exams, blood sugar management, and a proactive approach to eye health are key to maintaining clear vision for years to come.
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Advanced Vision Consultants inCherry Hill, Deptford Township, or Marlton to ensure your eyes stay as healthy as possible. Early detection and treatment are the best ways to prevent vision loss and keep your sight strong.