How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes - And Why You Need Regular Exams

Diabetes doesn’t just affect your blood sugar; it can have a serious impact on your vision as well. Many individuals with diabetes are unaware that the condition increases their risk for a range of eye problems that can lead to permanent vision loss if left undetected. At Eye Care Center of North Jersey, we emphasize the importance of regular eye exams as a critical part of diabetes management. Understanding how diabetes affects your eyes is the first step toward protecting your long-term vision.
 

Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Eye Health

When blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, they can damage the small blood vessels in the body, including those in the eyes. This damage can lead to a group of vision problems collectively known as diabetic eye disease.
 

Diabetic Retinopathy

This is the most common diabetic eye condition and a leading cause of blindness in adults. High blood sugar can cause the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) to leak or become blocked, leading to vision changes or loss. In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy may not show any symptoms - making regular exams crucial.
 

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

A complication of diabetic retinopathy, DME occurs when fluid builds up in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. This swelling can cause blurry or distorted vision and may worsen without treatment.
 

Cataracts

While cataracts can affect anyone, people with diabetes tend to develop them at a younger age. A cataract clouds the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision and light sensitivity.
 

Glaucoma

People with diabetes are at higher risk of developing glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve due to increased pressure in the eye. If left untreated, glaucoma can result in gradual vision loss.
 

Warning Signs to Watch For

Although some diabetic eye conditions may progress without noticeable symptoms, there are a few signs that should prompt immediate attention, including:

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Dark spots or floaters

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an eye exam right away.
 

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial

Routine eye exams are one of the most important tools for detecting diabetic eye disease early - often before vision is affected. Your optometrist can look for signs of damage to the retina, blood vessels, or optic nerve. Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can slow the progression of the disease and help preserve your vision.
 

Take Control of Your Eye Health

Living with diabetes means being proactive about every aspect of your health and your eyesight. Regular eye exams are a vital part of catching problems early, often before symptoms appear. We provide expert diabetic eye care and advanced imaging technology to monitor changes in your vision.

Schedule your diabetic eye exam with Eye Care Center of North Jersey and take the first step in protecting your sight for years to come. Visit our office in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, or call (908) 322-8040 to book an appointment today.