Can Diabetes Cause Vision Problems?

Diabetes and Vision Problems

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose, also known as blood sugar. When someone has diabetes, their body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use insulin properly. This can lead to high levels of glucose in the blood, which can cause a range of health problems if not properly managed. One common complication of diabetes is vision problems.

How Does Diabetes Affect Vision?

High levels of glucose in the blood can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes and can eventually lead to blindness if left untreated. In addition to diabetic retinopathy, diabetes can also increase the risk of developing other eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma.

Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Problems

It’s important for people with diabetes to be aware of the symptoms of diabetic eye problems so they can seek treatment as early as possible. Some common symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, floaters (spots or dark strings floating in your vision), difficulty seeing at night, and sudden changes in vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye doctor right away.

Preventing Vision Problems with Diabetes

While diabetes can increase the risk of vision problems, there are steps you can take to help prevent them. One of the most important things you can do is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. This may involve monitoring your blood sugar regularly, taking medication as prescribed, and following a healthy diet and exercise plan. It’s also important to have regular eye exams to catch any potential problems early on. If you do develop vision problems, there are treatments available that can help preserve your vision.