World Diabetes Day: Protect your eyes from diabetes with these 9 lifestyle changes

How to protect eyes: Maintaining blood glucose levels within a target range is one of the most effective ways to prevent diabetic eye disease. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the retina (Image: Canva)

Diabetic eye disease includes conditions like diabetic retinopathy, where high blood sugar damages the eye's blood vessels. This can lead to vision problems or blindness if left untreated. Other conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma, are also more common in people with diabetes. Early stages may not show symptoms, so regular eye exams are important for prevention.

In the early stages, diabetic eye disease may not cause noticeable symptoms, but fluctuating blood sugar levels can lead to temporary blurry vision. Says Dr Mohanraj, Consultant-Vitreoretinal Surgeon, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Bannerghatta, Bengaluru. He adds, “If blood sugar remains uncontrolled, it can damage the eye’s blood vessels, causing swelling, leakage, and potentially vision loss.”

In severe cases, abnormal blood vessels can increase pressure in the eye. “As the disease progresses, symptoms like blurry vision, floaters, dark patches, distorted colour vision, or sudden vision loss may appear. Since early stages are often symptom-free, regular eye exams are vital,” Dr Mohanraj warns.

Also read | World Diabetes Day: Understanding Diabetes & Diabetic Retinopathy Risks

Here are most effective tips, suggested by Dr Mohanraj, for managing diabetic eye health:

• Regular check-ups: Diabetic eye disease often develops without symptoms in its early stages, making yearly eye exams essential. Regular screenings help detect issues like diabetic retinopathy and macular edema before they lead to significant vision loss.

• Manage blood sugar:Maintaining blood glucose levels within a target range is one of the most effective ways to prevent diabetic eye disease. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, causing swelling and bleeding that may result in vision loss.

• Control blood pressure: High blood pressure worsens diabetic retinopathy by increasing stress on blood vessels, which can lead to more rapid progression of retinal damage. Monitoring blood pressure and following prescribed treatments are critical, as controlled blood pressure slows the progression of eye disease and minimises the risk of vision loss.

• Maintain healthy cholesterol: Increased cholesterol levels contribute to the development of fatty deposits in retinal blood vessels, worsening diabetic eye complications. Following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and taking medications (if prescribed) can help keep cholesterol at optimal levels, protecting eye health and cardiovascular well-being.

• Healthy diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, along with lutein and zeaxanthin (found in leafy greens like spinach and kale), supports eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon, also benefit the retina. Limiting sugar intake helps stabilise blood glucose, while staying hydrated prevents dryness and discomfort in the eyes.

• Exercise regularly: Physical activity not only helps regulate blood sugar levels but also improves blood circulation, which is vital for eye health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly. Regular activity reduces insulin resistance, which in turn helps prevent complications in diabetic eye disease.

• Quit smoking: Smoking exacerbates diabetic eye diseases, raising the risk of conditions like diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration. Smoking damages blood vessels and accelerates retinal cell deterioration. Quitting smoking helps slow the progression of eye diseases and improves your health.

• Wear sunglasses: Diabetics are more susceptible to UV-related eye damage, which increases the likelihood of cataracts and other issues. UV-protective sunglasses shield the eyes from harmful rays, reducing strain and minimising exposure that can worsen eye health over time.

• Control weight: Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce insulin resistance, making it easier to keep blood glucose within a target range. Excess weight increases the likelihood of complications such as diabetic retinopathy and worsens overall health, whereas a balanced diet and regular exercise support both weight management and eye health.