Diabetes can affect nearly every part of your body - including your eyes. High blood sugar levels over time can damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, leading to several serious eye conditions. Understanding these risks and staying proactive with regular diabetic eye exams can make a significant difference in preserving your vision.
 

Diabetic Retinopathy

This is one of the most common and serious eye complications caused by diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar damages the small blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or grow abnormally. In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, it can lead to blurred vision, dark spots, and even permanent vision loss.
 

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

Diabetic macular edema often develops as a result of diabetic retinopathy. It occurs when fluid leaks into the macula - the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision - causing swelling and vision distortion. Without treatment, DME can significantly impair your ability to read, drive, and see fine details.
 

Cataracts

People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age. Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurred or dim vision that worsens over time. Elevated blood sugar can cause changes in the lens, resulting in swelling and protein buildup that reduces its clarity. In many cases, cataracts progress gradually, making it increasingly difficult to see clearly in bright light or at night.
 

Glaucoma

Diabetes doubles your risk of developing glaucoma, a condition caused by increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve. Over time, this pressure can lead to gradual vision loss, often starting with peripheral vision and progressing without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
 

The Importance of Diabetic Eye Exams

Regular diabetic eye exams are essential for early detection and treatment of these conditions. Since many diabetic eye problems develop without obvious symptoms, annual comprehensive eye exams allow your optometrist to identify changes before they impact your vision. At Raleigh Eye Center, our advanced diagnostic technology helps us monitor retinal health, detect early signs of damage, and create a personalized plan to protect your eyesight.
 

How to Protect Your Eyes with Diabetes

•          Manage your blood sugar levels: Keeping your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control helps reduce your risk of complications.

•          Don’t skip your eye exams: Annual diabetic eye exams are key to catching issues early.

•          Report vision changes promptly: If you notice sudden blurriness, floaters, or vision loss, schedule an appointment immediately.
 

Prioritize Your Eye Health at Raleigh Eye Center

Diabetic eye problems are serious but often preventable with consistent care and monitoring. By managing your diabetes and prioritizing your annual eye exams, you can help preserve your vision for years to come.

Schedule your diabetic eye exam at Raleigh Eye Center and ensure your eyes stay as healthy as possible. Contact our office in Raleigh, Durham, Reidsville, Henderson, North Carolina, or South Hill, Virginia. Call (919) 899-2472, (919) 876-2427 or (252) 492-8021 to book an appointment today.