Understanding the connection between diabetes and eye health is crucial. Diabetes can have detrimental consequences on the eyes. Among other things, it increases the likelihood of developing eye diseases and losing vision. Do you have diabetes? Investigate the link between diabetes and eye health and the precautions you may take to preserve your vision.

What Is Diabetes?

This chronic condition alters how your body uses glucose, the primary energy source for your body cells. Type 1 and type 2 are the two primary diabetes subtypes. In persons with type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin. The purpose of this hormone is to regulate blood sugar levels. The body either stops manufacturing enough insulin or becomes immune to it in those with type 2 diabetes.

What Is Diabetic Eye Disease?

A collection of eye problems known as diabetic eye disease can affect those with diabetes. The following are the most frequent eye conditions associated with diabetes:
 

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Diabetic macular edema

• Diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where the blood vessels in the retina degenerate due to high blood sugar levels. This could cause blindness or vision loss if neglected. As the fluid builds up in the macula, diabetic macular edema, a consequence of diabetic retinopathy, happens. This region of the retina is in charge of providing clear, precise vision. 

The Connection Between Diabetes and Eye Health

Chronic diabetes can have a significant impact on the eyes. As mentioned, it can increase the risk of developing several eye conditions. Eye blood vessels can sustain damage from high blood sugar injury. Diabetic retinopathy is an example. Blurred vision, floaters, and even blindness can result from this condition.

Diabetes patients are more likely to have cataracts or clouding of the eye's lens. Also, your risk of having cataracts rises with age. Moreover, glaucoma, which damages the optic nerve, may be more likely to occur in those with diabetes.

Prevention and Management of Diabetic Eye Disease

The good news is that people with diabetes can take several measures to prevent or control diabetic eye damage. The most important thing is to maintain control of your blood sugar. This is possible through your food, exercise program, and prescribed drugs by your doctor. These can help prevent or slow the progression of diabetic eye disease.

Regular eye exams are crucial for people with diabetes. This is true even if they are not experiencing any vision problems. Eye exams can detect early signs of diabetic eye disease and allow for prompt treatment to prevent vision loss.

If detected, treatment options may include medication, laser surgery, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Adhering to your eye doctor's treatment instructions is crucial to avoid further vision loss or blindness.

Besides blood sugar control and regular eye exams, lifestyle changes can help prevent or manage diabetic eye disease. A healthy weight, quitting smoking, and regular exercise can reduce the risk of diabetic complications.

Conclusion

Diabetes can have negative impacts on eye health. Hence, those with the disease should take precautions to safeguard their vision. Regular eye exams and blood sugar control are crucial for preventing and managing eye diseases.
 

For more on diabetes and eye health, visit Skowron Eye Care at our Elmhurst, Illinois office. Call (630) 834-6244 to schedule an appointment today.