Nurturing Vision: Observing Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

The Link Between Diabetes and Eye Health

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of lives worldwide. But did you know that it can also significantly impact your eyesight? Diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma are among the potential eye complications from unmanaged diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems and even blindness if left untreated.

Diabetic Macular Edema

Diabetic macular edema (DME) happens when long-term high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, causing fluid to leak into the macula, the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision. As the macula swells, straight lines can look wavy, colors may seem faded, and it can become harder to read, recognize faces, or drive.

DME can occur at any stage of diabetic retinopathy, but it becomes more likely as the disease progresses and blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol remain poorly controlled. Without treatment, diabetic macular edema can lead to permanent vision loss.

Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. While cataracts are common with aging, people with diabetes tend to develop them at a younger age and are at higher risk overall. Over time, high blood sugar can cause changes in the lens that make it swell, become cloudy, and less flexible. This can lead to blurry or hazy vision, trouble seeing at night, glare or halos around lights, and colors that seem less bright.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the “cable” taht connects your eye to your brain. Diabetes nearly doubles the risk of developing certain types of glaucoma, especially open-angle glaucoma and a more aggressive form called neovascular glaucoma, where new, abnormal blood vessels grow on the iris and drainage structures in response to poor retinal circulation.

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it usually has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Vision loss starts with the side (peripheral) vision and slowly progresses, so many people do not realize anything is wrong until significant damage has occurred.

Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in adults and the most common eye conditions caused by diabetes. It occurs when the blood vessels in the retina become weakened and leaky due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. This condition can progress through several stages, each affecting vision differently. Early detection and proper management are vital to prevent irreversible vision loss.

Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)

NPDR is the early stage of diabetic retinopathy. In NPDR, the blood vessels in the retina begin to weaken and leak fluid or blood. This can lead to swelling in the retina and result in distorted or blurry vision. Small yellow deposits called “exudates” might also form on the retina. NPDR can progress from mild to severe as the blood vessels deteriorate.

Treatment for NPDR often focuses on controlling diabetes and closely monitoring the eyes. Your eye doctor may recommend more frequent dilated eye exams and imaging tests to track changes in the retina. Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol can slow or even halt disease progression. If swelling in the macula (diabetic macular edema) is present, treatment may include anti-VEGF injections, steroid injections or implants, and sometimes focal laser therapy to help reduce fluid leakage and protect central vision.

Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

If diabetic retinopathy progresses and the blood vessels become severely damaged, new blood vessels may grow on the retina’s surface and into the vitreous gel that fills the eye. These new blood vessels are fragile and can bleed into the eye, causing floaters or even more severe vision problems. Additionally, these new vessels can lead to scar tissue formation, which might cause the retina to detach from the back of the eye, leading to vision loss.

Treatment for PDR is aimed at stopping or shrinking the abnormal blood vessels and preventing further vision loss. Panretinal (scatter) laser photocoagulation is commonly used to reduce the retina’s need for oxygen and discourage new vessel growth. Anti-VEGF injections may also be used to block signals that cause abnormal vessels to form. If there is significant bleeding into the vitreous or retinal detachment, a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy may be needed to remove blood, repair the retina, and stabilize the eye. Even with advanced disease, timely treatment can help preserve remaining vision and reduce the risk of serious complications.

Preventive Measures for Diabetic Eye Disease

While diabetic eye disease can be worrisome, there are steps you can take to protect your eyes if you have diabetes:

Control Blood Sugar

Keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range your healthcare provider prescribes can significantly reduce the risk of diabetic eye complications. By consistently staying within this range, you contribute to your overall well-being and establish a good defense against potential eye issues that diabetes can create.

Regular Eye Exams

Schedule comprehensive eye exams at least once a year. Our skilled team at Clarkson Eyecare is trained to detect subtle changes in your eyes that might indicate diabetic eye problems. Scheduling these examinations can proactively identify any issues before they lead to irreversible vision loss.

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Management

High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can make diabetic eye issues much worse. Monitor and manage these factors through a healthy lifestyle and prescribed medications to ensure your eyes remain healthy and your vision remains clear.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Your daily choices can significantly impact both diabetes management and overall eye health. Having a balanced diet that prioritizes nutrient-rich foods is critical. You should also engage in regular physical activity. Not only does it help with managing diabetes, but it also promotes better circulation, which is essential for healthy eyes. It’s also best to avoid smoking and moderate alcohol consumption to preserve eye health.