Diabetes and Your Eyesight

Did you know that diabetes is one of the main reasons of vision impairment worldwide? In fact, statistics show that around 285 million are suffering from eyesight irregularities, including blindness, because of this condition. There are other ways diabetes can affect your eyesight.

Blurred Vision

Diabetes is a disease characterized by your body’s impaired ability to respond or produce insulin, a hormone that helps metabolize carbohydrates. This causes elevated sugar levels in your blood, making it thick. As your blood becomes viscous, blood circulation to your different organs is compromised. Your eyes may not get the oxygen and nutrients they need, resulting in your blurred vision.

Cataracts

Cataracts involve the clouding of your lenses, restricting light entry to your eyes and causing impaired vision. While anyone can have them, your eye doctors explain that those with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts than non-diabetics. Not only that, it’s also highly possible for them to have cataracts at an early age, which worsen at a faster rate.

In addition, high glucose levels can cause your lens to swell and lead to cataract formation. In addition, your natural lenses have an enzyme that converts glucose into sorbitol. Sorbitol can make your lenses become more opaque, resulting in cataracts.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma happens when the pressure inside your eyes becomes so high to the point it damages your nerves and blood vessels, causing changes in your vision. The intraocular pressure primarily increases when the volume of fluids in your eyes rises. Conditions that add pressure to your eyes, such as viscous blood as that of diabetics, can also lead to glaucoma. This is why people with diabetes are twice at risk of having glaucoma compared to those who aren’t diabetic.

How to Prevent Diabetes-Related Vision Problems

Controlling your blood sugar levels is key to preventing complications from diabetes. This is why it’s important that you take your medications as prescribed by your doctor. You should also visit your orthokeratology and eye care center regularly. Doing so allows us to monitor your vision, find problems early and treat them accordingly. Having routine eye exams can help save your eyesight.

For more information on how diabetes affects your eyes, call the experts at Insight Vision Center Optometry at (714) 486-3315, or complete our form. We serve Costa Mesa, Newport Beach and nearby areas.