Diabetes is a condition that happens when your blood glucose levels are too high. It develops when your pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin or any at all, or when your body isn’t responding to the effects of insulin properly. Diabetes affects people of all ages. Most forms of diabetes are chronic , and all forms are manageable with medications and/or lifestyle changes.
Diabetes is a disease that can affect many parts of the body including the eyes. One of the most common eye-related complications of diabetes is diabetic retinopathy, which occurs when high blood glucose levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. Over time, this damage can cause the vessels to leak fluid or blood, leading to vision problems. Early stages of diabetic retinopathy may not show noticeable symptoms, but as the condition progresses, it can cause blurred vision, dark spots, and even complete loss of vision if left untreated.
In addition to diabetic retinopathy, diabetes can also increase the risk of other serious eye
conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma. Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become
cloudy, impairing vision and making it difficult to see clearly, particularly in low light. People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at an earlier age and may experience faster progression of the condition. Glaucoma, which is characterized by increased pressure in the eye, can lead to optic nerve damage and permanent vision loss if not managed properly. Both cataracts and glaucoma can be managed with appropriate medical treatment, but prevention through blood glucose control and regular eye checkups is key to reducing the risk of these complications.
Regular eye exams are vital for diabetic patients, as they allow for early detection of potentially vision-threatening conditions. Managing diabetes effectively, along with routine eye exams, helps prevent significant vision loss and maintains quality of life.
References:
1. Cleveland Clinic, 2025. Diabetes
2. American Diabetes Association. "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2024." Diabetes Care, 47
3. National Eye Institute (NEI). "Diabetic Retinopathy." National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.