Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body processes blood sugar. It can damage various organs and nerves in your body, including your eyes.

High blood sugar levels over an extended period can lead to different eye conditions, which can seriously affect your eye health. This article will discuss the impact of diabetes on your eye health and some preventive measures to take.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common eye condition caused by diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the retina, causing them to swell and leak.

Over time, new blood vessels start to grow on the retina, which can cause severe vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in adults in the United States.

Diabetic Macular Edema

Diabetic macular edema is a condition where fluid accumulates in the macula, which is a part of the retina responsible for central vision. The swelling can cause blurred or distorted vision and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision loss.

It’s estimated that approximately 20-30% of people with diabetic retinopathy have diabetic macular edema.

Glaucoma

Diabetes can also increase your risk of developing glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve and can cause vision loss. People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma than those without diabetes.

High blood sugar levels can lead to increased pressure inside the eye, which can damage the optic nerve over time.

Cataracts

Cataracts are another eye condition that can be caused by diabetes. The lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or distorted vision.

People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop cataracts than those without diabetes, and the risk increases with age.

Preventing Eye Problems in Diabetes

Managing your blood sugar levels can go a long way in preventing eye problems caused by diabetes. Here are some tips to help prevent diabetic eye disease:.

Monitor Your Blood Sugar

Keeping your blood sugar levels under control is one of the best ways to prevent diabetic eye disease. Work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan to manage your blood sugar levels and stick to it.

Make sure to check your blood sugar levels regularly, and report any changes to your doctor as soon as possible.

Get Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting eye problems in people with diabetes. Your eye doctor can detect changes in your eyes before you experience any symptoms.

Make sure to see your eye doctor at least once a year, or more frequently if they recommend it.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can all help prevent diabetic eye disease. A healthy lifestyle can also help you manage your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of other complications from diabetes.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can increase your risk of diabetic eye disease and other complications from diabetes. Quitting smoking can be challenging, but it’s essential for your overall health and eye health.

Talk to your healthcare provider about resources that can help you quit.

Conclusion

Diabetes can have a severe impact on your eye health, leading to conditions like diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, glaucoma, and cataracts.

Managing your blood sugar levels and getting regular eye exams are crucial for preventing these conditions. A healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, can also help reduce your risk of diabetic eye disease. Quitting smoking is another essential step in protecting your eye health.