Diabetics are typically at higher risk for blindness and eye disease. High blood sugars interfere with the normal function of the eyes and may result in blurred or impaired vision. Diabetes is the number one cause of blindness in people aged 21 to 74. People with this disease should include regular eye exams as part of their plan of care. Learn more about diabetes and eye health from an Optometrist Chicago.
Blurred Vision
The hallmark of diabetes is the body’s inability to control blood sugar. As blood sugars rise, the lens of the eye swells and vision becomes blurry. Maintaining a controlled blood sugar can significantly help to improve eyesight. Although blurred vision may be a temporary condition due to swelling, it may also be a more serious disease that requires immediate attention. Diabetics are more prone to develop cataracts, glaucoma and damage to the retina.
Cataracts
The lens is a clear part of the eye that focuses on objects and adjusts the amount of light into the eye. With frequent distension of the lens from high blood sugars, the lens becomes cloudy and the world looks foggy or blurry. This permanent condition requires the cloudy lens to be removed and replaced with a clear man-made lens in a surgical procedure.
Glaucoma
Diabetics may experience an increase in the pressure of the eye that causes damage to the nerves and blood vessels. In addition to vision loss, symptom may include headaches, eye pain, watery eyes and they may see halos around lights. It is imperative that this condition is diagnosed early to prevent further eye injury and loss of sight. Medications are currently used to help drain the eye fluid and reduce the pressure. Regular checkups with the Optometrist Chicago can reduce the chance for the eventual damage that may cause blindness.
Retinopathy
The retina is responsible to supply blood to the optic nerve and send images from the eyes to the brain. Damage to the blood vessels and eye structures may impair the circulation of blood to the retina and injure to the optic nerve. Retinopathy is a major cause of blindness and diabetics have a higher risk to develop this condition.
See Your Optometrist
People who suffer from diabetes should have regular eye exams and ensure their eye health is not at risk. Normal blood sugars and a healthy lifestyle can help diabetics improve or maintain their eyesight.
