Diabetes can affect vision in many ways. High glucose levels can cause a temporary change in the shape of the lens this causes a diabetic's vision to fluctuate. Cataract formation is another common cause of visual impairment and occur at earlier age in diabetic patients. Cataracts are opacities that develop in the normally clear lens. Diabetes can severely affect the functioning of retina by weakening the blood vessels that supply nourishment to the retina (the light-sensitive lining in the back of the eye where vision is focused). When these weak vessels leak, swell or develop thin branches, vision loss occurs. In its advanced stages, the disease can cause blurred or cloudy vision, floaters (due to bleeding) and blind spots and, eventually, blindness. This damage is irreversible.
The first is called background or non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In this type of diabetic retinopathy, the blood vessels in the retina leak and hemorrhage. The patient may notice a decrease in vision if the swelling and hemorrhage affect a portion of the retina called the macula. The macula is responsible for central vision. Macular edema or swelling is the most common cause of visual loss in diabetic retinopathy.
The second type of diabetic retinopathy is called proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In this condition, new blood vessels grow in the eye. These new blood vessels tend to bleed and leak causing vision loss. These new blood vessels may also pull on the retina causing a retinal detachment.
Fortunately, diabetic retinopathy can be preventable but your risk is reduced if you follow your prescribed diet and medications, exercise regularly, control your blood pressure, and avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Regular eye exams are an integral part of making sure your eyes are healthy.
Although damage caused by diabetic retinopathy cannot be corrected, patients diagnosed with the condition can be treated to slow its progression and prevent further vision loss. Treatment modalities include laser and vitrectomy procedures.
Disclaimer - The information on our website is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace a consultation with an eye care professional. If you think you have an eye condition then you must be properly assessed.
