World Diabetes Day 2025: Keeping your eyes safe from diabetes simple steps for healthy vision

Even with normal vision, diabetes can harm your retina. Learn expert tips on early detection, eye exams, sugar control, and lifestyle changes. (Image: Pexels)

Diabetes isn’t just about high blood sugar—it also damages tiny blood vessels in the body, including those in the eyes.  Even when vision seems normal, diabetes can harm the delicate blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, or glaucoma.

The retina is a light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, and it’s crucial for clear vision, says Dr Preethi S, Surgeon, Vitreo Retina at Nethradhama Superspeciality Eye Hospital, Bengaluru. "When diabetes affects these vessels, they can become weak or blocked, leading to diabetic retinopathy. In severe cases, this can even result in blindness", Dr Preethi adds.

While diabetic retinopathy is the most common eye complication, diabetes increases the risk of other problems too. “Clouding of the lens, known as cataracts, can blur vision, and glaucoma, a condition caused by increased pressure in the eye, can damage the optic nerve that connects the eye to the brain.” says Dr Preethi, and adds, “People often ignore eye checks when vision seems fine. But damage can begin long before you notice any symptoms.”

Also Read: Diabetes and eye sight: Ophthalmologist reveals the unseen link between diabetes and fading vision

Dr Preethi shares tips on protecting your eyes from diabetes: Preventing serious eye problems isn’t complicated, but it does require vigilance. She recommends: 

• Regular eye examinations: Even if vision feels perfect, schedule eye check -ups at least once a year. As early detection can prevent long-term damage.
• Control blood sugar: Stable sugar levels reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy and other complications
• Manage blood pressure and cholesterol:High blood pressure and cholesterol worsen damage to tiny blood vessels in the eye.
• Lifestyle habits: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking support overall eye health.
• Seek timely treatment: If retinopathy, cataracts, or glaucoma are detected, early intervention can prevent progression and preserve vision.

Also Read: What is diabetic retinopathy? What your eyes can tell you about your health

Diabetes doesn’t have to mean losing sight. “With regular monitoring, proper management of blood sugar, and timely eye care, you can protect your vision for decades,” reassures Dr Preethi.

FAQs on Diabetes and Vision:

1. How does diabetes affect vision?

Diabetes can damage small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to conditions like diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma.

2. What is diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, potentially leading to vision loss or blindness.

3. How can I protect my vision if I have diabetes?

Regular eye examinations, controlling blood sugar, managing blood pressure and cholesterol, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely treatment for any detected eye issues are crucial for protecting vision.

4. Can diabetic retinopathy be treated?

Yes, early detection and treatment can prevent progression and preserve vision. Regular eye check-ups are essential for early intervention.

5. Are there any symptoms of diabetic eye damage before vision loss occurs?

Often, there are no symptoms in the early stages of diabetic eye damage. Regular eye examinations are crucial for detecting any issues before vision is affected.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.