Key Takeaways

• Diabetes can silently wreak havoc on the eyes, leading to a range of complications that, if left unchecked, can result in permanent vision loss. 

• One of the most serious eye complications associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy. Other diseases are cataracts, glaucoma and macular edema.

• Routine eye examinations are important if you have diabetes.

• Maintaining optimal blood sugar levels is important in preventing and managing diabetes-related eye complications.

• Beyond blood sugar control and regular eye exams, individuals with diabetes can benefit with lifestyle modifications and a holistic approach.

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, affecting millions of people worldwide. 

While its impact on the cardiovascular system, kidneys, and nerves are well-documented, the connection between diabetes and vision is often underestimated. Diabetes can silently wreak havoc on the eyes, leading to a range of complications that, if left unchecked, can result in permanent vision loss. 

Let us explore the relationship between diabetes and ocular health – as well as the importance of regular eye examinations and proactive management.

How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes

Diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood glucose levels. Glucose comes from the food we eat. It is also produced by our liver. Glucose is the main source of energy for the body’s cells and is transported through the bloodstream. 

Diabetes occurs when our body either doesn’t make enough insulin, and/or it doesn’t use insulin well. Without insulin, the cell remains locked, and glucose can’t get inside. The glucose remains in our blood and causes the high blood glucose that we see in diabetes. Having too much glucose in the bloodstream – and outside of the cells where it belongs – can lead to damage of the blood vessels and nerves throughout your body, and that includes the eyes.

Diabetic Eye Diseases

Diabetic Retinopathy

One of the most serious eye complications associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy. This condition occurs when elevated blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as it progresses, it can lead to vision impairment and even blindness.

The damaged blood vessels may leak fluid into the retina, causing swelling and blurred vision. In more advanced stages, abnormal blood vessels may grow on the surface of the retina, leading to further complications. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting diabetic retinopathy in its early stages, allowing for timely intervention to prevent irreversible damage.

Anyone with type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy. The higher your risk the longer you’ve had diabetes. In addition, smoking as well as extremely high blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels  can also increase your risk.

Macular Edema

Macular edema is one the most common causes of vision loss among diabetes patients. This is where the macula swells due to the accumulation of fluid. This can result in distorted or blurred vision and is a common complication of diabetic retinopathy. The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. 

Factors that are associated with macular edema include the duration of diabetes, higher systolic blood pressure, and higher HbA1c. However, the sole ocular factor associated with macular edema is the severity of diabetic retinopathy severity – the higher the severity of diabetic retinopathy, the higher the prevalence of macular edema.

Cataracts and Glaucoma

People with diabetes are also at an increased risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma. Cataracts, a clouding of the eye's natural lens, can progress more rapidly in individuals with diabetes. Although cataracts are a common age-related condition, diabetes accelerates their formation, leading to impaired vision. Studies reported that cataract formation occurs more frequently, and also at an earlier age, in patients with diabetes than in those without diabetes. Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Similarly, diabetes is a significant risk factor for glaucoma, a group of eye conditions characterized by damage to the optic nerve. Elevated intraocular pressure, common in diabetes, can contribute to the development and progression of glaucoma. A study found that diabetes, how long the patient has had diabetes, and fasting glucose levels were associated with a significantly higher risk of primary open-angle glaucoma. Further, diabetes and fasting glucose levels were associated with slightly increased levels of intraocular pressure..

Regular eye check-ups are crucial for the early detection and management of these conditions, as both cataracts and glaucoma can be treated effectively when identified in their early stages.

Routine Eye Exams

Routine eye examinations are important to prevent and manage diabetes-related eye complications. Eye care professionals can detect subtle changes in the eyes that may not be immediately apparent to the individual. The American Diabetes Association recommends annual dilated eye exams for people with diabetes, even if they do not experience noticeable vision problems.

During a dilated eye exam, the eye care professional uses special eye drops to widen the pupils, allowing for a more detailed examination of the retina. This enables early detection of diabetic retinopathy and other ocular complications, facilitating timely intervention and preventing irreversible damage.

Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining optimal blood sugar levels is very important in preventing and managing diabetes-related eye complications. Tight glycemic control can significantly reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy and slow its progression. A comprehensive diabetes treatment program that includes regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, nutritional guidance, and medication adherence is essential for preserving ocular health.

Lifestyle Modifications 

Beyond blood sugar control and regular eye exams, individuals with diabetes can take proactive steps to safeguard their vision

A Healthy Diet

Adopting a nutrient-rich, balanced diet can support overall health, including your eye health. Foods rich in antioxidant vitamins and minerals (A, C, and E, and the mineral zinc)  can contribute to maintaining healthy eyes.

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity not only helps control blood sugar levels but also promotes cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of diabetic complications, including those affecting the eyes.

Stop Smoking

Smoking is a known risk factor for diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions. Quitting smoking can significantly improve overall health and reduce the risk of vision-related complications. 

Managing Your Blood Pressure

Hypertension is another common comorbidity in individuals with diabetes and can exacerbate eye complications. Managing blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and medication, when necessary.

A Holistic Diabetes Management Plan

Finally, regular collaboration with healthcare professionals and a commitment to a holistic and personalized diabetes management plan are essential steps on the journey to preserving ocular health. 

You might want to explore NOVI Magnum. Through this diabetes treatment program, your doctor and health coach will take the time to understand your goals, health status and current lifestyle during your first meeting so they can personalize the care you receive. They will work together with you to create a holistic treatment plan that best suits your unique situation.

To manage your glucose levels, you will also be provided with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Through this and by logging your food intake and physical activity, you and your care team will understand your body better.

You will also get digital access to your health team via our mobile app, to make it easier for you to keep on track, tweak your program as you progress, and help you stay motivated.