Diabetes and Vision
Diabetes can contribute to the development of many related conditions. Eye conditions are no exception. Diabetic eye disease can significantly impair your vision. If left unaddressed, diabetic eye disease can lead to vision loss. At Eye Clinic of Sandpoint, we have years of experience identifying and addressing eye conditions associated with diabetes.
How Diabetes Causes Eye Disease
All of the cells in your body need glucose, including those that make up your eyes. When your glucose levels are disrupted, cells become susceptible to damage and harmful conditions. If diabetes is allowed to progress, these conditions can worsen and cause long-term issues and even permanent damage. Diabetics should focus on stabilizing their blood glucose levels to prevent eye issues from developing and current ones from progressing.
Vision Conditions Connected with Diabetes
One of the first and most common symptoms of a diabetes-related eye problem is blurred vision. Of course, this can be caused by an extremely wide variety of other illnesses and conditions, and so it is important to not jump to conclusions. Here are the conditions often tied to diabetes:
- Diabetic Retinopathy: A condition where changes to the retina can lead to blurred or distorted vision and even blindness. If not treated, the condition can get progressively worse.
- Glaucoma: This condition is caused by damage to the optic nerve. In addition to blurred vision, symptoms include vision changes, redness, and eye pain.
- Hyperglycemia: A condition characterized by excess blood glucose. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, and irregular thirst/urination.
- Macular Edema: A form of internal eye swelling that can lead to difficulty seeing and blindness. Symptoms include wavy vision and color changes.
If you think you are experiencing any of these conditions, it is important to see an eye doctor for a full diagnosis.
Treatment for Diabetes-Related Eye Disease
If you have diabetes and start noticing blurred vision or other eye issues, don't panic. Our eye doctor will evaluate your eyes to determine whether or not you are suffering from diabetic eye disease and provide treatment accordingly. Many eye conditions related to diabetes can be resolved by adjusting your diet and stabilizing your blood sugar levels. Some people may only need to take eye drops for relief. Other causes can be more serious and may require a more aggressive treatment plan, which is why it's vital to get to the bottom of things with the help of an optometrist.
Optometrist in Sandpoint, ID
If you believe you are suffering from diabetic eye disease, Eye Clinic of Sandpoint is ready to assist you. For more information on how diabetes impacts eye health or to schedule an appointment with our optometrist, call us at (208) 263-8501.
