Diabetes can have a significant impact on your overall health, and your vision is no exception. If left unmanaged, high blood sugar levels can damage the delicate structures of the eye, leading to a range of vision problems. Understanding the symptoms and taking proactive steps can help protect your eyesight.
How Can Diabetes Affect Your Vision?
Diabetes affects vision primarily through conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the retina, causing blurred or impaired vision over time. Additionally, changes in lens shape due to fluid fluctuations can cause temporary blurry vision. Over time, untreated diabetes-related eye conditions can lead to irreversible vision loss. Regular eye exams and managing your blood sugar levels are key to preserving your sight.
Eyewear
If you’re diabetic, you may benefit from special types of contact lenses, such as those made from more breathable materials, which can reduce dryness and provide better oxygenation to the eye.Some people with diabetes also opt for daily disposable contact lenses, which reduce the risk of infections since they’re worn once and discarded.
Symptoms to Watch For
Reduced ability to see in low-light conditions can be an early sign of diabetic retinopathy or other complications. If you have diabetes, it’s essential to monitor for the following symptoms that could indicate vision issues:
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Blurry or fluctuating vision: Changes in blood sugar levels can cause blurry or inconsistent vision, making it harder to focus.
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Difficulty seeing at night
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Increased sensitivity to glare
Bright lights may become distracting or painful, particularly when driving at night. These small shapes in your vision may indicate damage to the blood vessels in your retina or the development of diabetic retinopathy. Sudden vision loss can be a medical emergency and may signal advanced diabetic eye disease or other serious complications.
Protecting Your Vision with Diabetes
The good news is that many diabetes-related vision problems can be prevented or managed with proper care. Here are actionable steps you can take to protect your eyesight:
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Control Blood Sugar Levels: Consistently maintaining blood sugar within your target range reduces the risk of developing diabetic eye complications.
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Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Annual comprehensive dilated eye exams are crucial for detecting early signs of diabetes-related eye issues, even if you don’t notice changes in your vision.
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Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol can exacerbate eye damage. Managing these conditions is integral to protecting your vision.
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Address Symptoms Early: If you notice any changes in your vision, seek prompt medical attention to prevent minor issues from escalating into major concerns.
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Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of diabetic complications, including vision problems. Quitting can improve overall eye health and diabetes management.
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Use Proper Lighting and Eyewear: Reduce glare by using appropriate lighting and protective eyewear to minimize discomfort and eye strain.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Contact an eye care professional immediately if you experience sudden vision loss, flashes of light, or an increased number of floaters. These could be signs of retinal detachment or severe diabetic retinopathy, which require urgent treatment.
Take the Next Step Toward Protecting Your Vision
Managing your diabetes is essential to protecting your vision. Regular eye exams and a commitment to your overall health can make a significant difference. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed, schedule an appointment with your eye care provider today.