Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. But beyond blood sugar levels, diabetes can also impact your vision. Prolonged high blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, leading to a range of eye problems collectively known as diabetic eye disease.
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes. It occurs when blood vessels in the retina leak or become blocked. In advanced stages, it can lead to diabetic macular edema (DME), which affects the central vision. Diabetes also increases the risk of other conditions like glaucoma and cataracts.
Early stages of diabetic eye disease may not show symptoms. That’s why regular eye exams are crucial. Detecting problems early can help prevent or delay serious vision loss. Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can also reduce the risk of eye complications.
If you have diabetes, make your eye health a priority. Annual comprehensive eye exams are a key step in protecting your sight for the future.
