Beware of diabetes: How to detect vision problems in time?

21 November 2024

Diabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are too high. This happens because the body does not produce insulin or does not use it properly, which prevents glucose from entering the cells to be used as energy. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin, while in type 2 diabetes, insulin is not used or is not produced correctly.

Diabetes can affect eye health due to high blood glucose levels, which damage blood vessels and the crystalline lens of the eyes. This damage can lead to vision problems and even lead to blindness in severe cases. Among the main visual conditions associated with diabetes are diabetic retinopathy and macular edema, both caused by alterations in the blood vessels of the retina. In addition, diabetes also increases the risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma, two disorders that affect vision and can worsen over time.

Early warning signs of vision

Recognizing some of the early symptoms of diabetes-related eye problems can help you seek care early and prevent permanent damage. Signs include:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision due to high blood sugar levels.
• Flashes of light, spots or floating spots, which may indicate diabetic retinopathy or retinal detachment.
• Difficulty seeing at night or in dimly lit areas, a possible sign of retinal damage.

Comprehensive eye exams, including pupil dilation, are critical to detecting damage before symptoms appear. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes have an eye exam at least once a year. Ophthalmologists can detect retinal changes and other signs of vision problems before they become serious. This early detection and proper treatment can make a big difference and help prevent major complications, preserving vision and quality of life.