Most people know that diabetes affects blood sugar, but many don’t realize it can also affect eyesight. In fact, diabetes is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults. The good news is that regular eye exams and good diabetes management can help protect your vision.
How Does Diabetes Affect the Eyes?
High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels inside the retina, the part of the eye that helps you see. This condition is called diabetic retinopathy. Over time, these damaged blood vessels can leak, swell, or even close off completely, causing vision problems.
People with diabetes are also at a higher risk for cataracts and glaucoma.
Symptoms to Watch For
Eye disease caused by diabetes often has no symptoms in the early stages. As the condition gets worse, symptoms may include:
- Blurry vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Trouble seeing at night
- Changes in vision that come and go
- Partial vision loss
Because symptoms may not appear right away, regular eye exams are important—even if your vision seems normal.
Protecting Your Vision
There are several steps you can take to lower your risk of vision problems:
- Keep your blood sugar levels under control.
- Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Take medications as prescribed.
- Don’t smoke.
- Schedule regular dilated eye exams.
Early detection can help prevent serious vision loss.
How CCMH Can Help
At Crawford County Memorial Hospital, our Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist can help patients manage diabetes and identify concerns early. Patients who need specialized eye care can also access ophthalmology services through the CCMH Specialty Clinic.
If you have diabetes or concerns about your vision, talk with your healthcare provider. Protecting your eyesight starts with taking care of your overall health.
Learn more about the Diabetes Management Program at CCMH.
