Diabetic Eye Problems Need Special Care

Diabetic eye problems are common but potentially devastating long-term complications of diabetes.

The elevated and frequently fluctuating blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the eye. These supply nutrients to the retina of the eye, the part that detects light.

The disease causes these blood vessels to become fragile and prone to leaking. The Optometrist or Ophthalmologist examining your eyes may see swelling, haemorrhages, areas of poor blood flow or abnormal blood vessels.

If you have diabetes, your risk of developing retinopathy increases the longer you have had diabetes. It typically starts to be seen after having diabetes for 5 years. However, in Type 2 diabetes, it may already be present when you are diagnosed.

In Type 1 Diabetes, 98% of patients have retinopathy after 15 years. 78% of Type 2 Diabetes have some level of retinal damage after 15 years.

If your diabetic retinopathy remains undetected and untreated, it can lead to irreversible and progressive vision loss. Treatment helps to keep it under control. With early and appropriate treatment, only 5% experience significant visual impairment.

You should have your eyes examined by your Optometrist every year. This should be a dilated exam: eye drops will be administered to make your pupil large, which enables a thorough look at your retina.

You should work closely with your medical team to keep your blood sugar levels well controlled. This helps to prevent damage in the first place.

When significant retinopathy is discovered, the treatment is often using a laser to cauterize abnormal blood vessels. The aim is to prevent further damage. You may not regain any of what has been lost. Prevention is better than treatment, so look after yourself.

Symptoms of Diabetes:

• Blurred vision that does not improve with glasses
• Fluctuating vision (good sometimes, foggy sometimes)
• Double vision (variable or constant)
• Sudden loss of vision, especially after sneezing or coughing
• Seeing “cobwebs”, “spots” or “holes” in your vision
• Eye pain

Having Diabetes puts you at increased risk of other eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts. Consult your doctor for more information on your specific risk of developing diabetic eye problems.

If you don't take proper care of your diabetes it could lead to other diabetic complications.

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