The link between diabetes and eye health: How high blood sugar can damage the eyes

Diabetes is a often associated with the heart, kidneys, and nerves. However it’s effects on the eyes can be equally concerning. As per multiple studies diabetes can affect the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, which plays a vital role in vision. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage these blood vessels, leading to conditions that threaten sight.

High blood sugar levels, if not managed properly, can lead to a variety of eye issues, some of which may not be noticeable until significant damage has already occurred, says, Dr Chitra. S, Consultant Endocrinologist at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, Bengaluru. “The impact of diabetes on eye health is often subtle at first, but with careful monitoring and management, we can prevent or delay the onset of serious complications. Early detection through regular eye exams is key to preventing long-term vision loss,” she adds.

Dr Chitra S shares how diabetes impact eye health:

• Retinopathy: High blood sugar levels can weaken the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This condition may cause blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, or even total vision loss if left untreated.

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• Diabetic macular edema (DME): DME occurs when fluid builds up in the central part of the retina (the macula), causing it to swell. This can make tasks like reading or recognizing faces more difficult, and vision loss may gradually worsen without intervention.

• Cataracts: People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing cataracts, a clouding of the eye's lens that can impair vision. Diabetes can also cause cataracts to develop at a faster rate compared to those without the condition.

• Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure caused by diabetes can lead to glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve and can result in permanent vision loss if not managed.

• Blurred or sudden vision changes: One of the earliest signs of eye problems related to diabetes is blurry vision or sudden changes in eyesight. These symptoms can be a result of fluctuations in blood sugar levels affecting the eye's ability to focus.

Many eye problems caused by diabetes, like diabetic retinopathy or macular edema, don’t show obvious symptoms at first. Regular eye exams can catch these issues early, before they cause noticeable vision problems. “Conditions like diabetic retinopathy and cataracts can cause irreversible damage if left untreated. Detecting these issues early allows for prompt treatment that can preserve vision and prevent further deterioration,” says Dr Chitra S.

Also read | Diabetes and cataracts: High blood sugar damages blood vessels, here's how to keep eyes healthy

She suggests that keeping blood sugar levels under control is one of the most effective ways to protect your eyes from diabetic complications. “Regular eye exams give your healthcare team the chance to assess the impact of your blood sugar management on your vision,” she adds.