Dr. Zachary Olsen, Optometrist, Southwest Health Eye Center
Diabetes is the leading cause of adult blindness in the United States.
This metabolic disease occurs when the body struggles to produce or effectively use insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. When glucose levels remain high for an extended amount of time, it can damage various organs, including the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels, which include the micro-vessels in the eye.
The risk of developing diabetes-related complications increases over time, even if blood glucose levels are well-managed. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 38.4 million, or 1 in 10, people have diabetes in the US, with 1 in 5 people not knowing they have diabetes. Additionally, around 97.6 million, or 1 in 3, American adults are pre-diabetic placing them at an increased risk.
Diabetic eye disease describes several eye problems that are associated with diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and an increased risk for glaucoma. The likelihood of developing these conditions increases with higher glucose levels and the duration of diabetes.
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when vessels in the retina leak blood into the retinal tissue. In advanced cases, this may lead to the formation of abnormal new blood vessels on the surface of the retina. As a result, serious vision impairment may ensue.
Macular edema is caused by the leaking of blood vessels, which leads to fluid accumulation in the center part of the retina (macula). This swelling can blur central vision. If untreated, diabetic macular edema can lead to permanent vision loss.
Cataract formation of the lens can be accelerated by high blood sugar levels. As cataracts progress, they can blur vision, necessitating surgery to replace the clouded lens with a clear one. Proper blood sugar management can slow lens clouding and prolong the need for surgery.
Glaucoma, particularly open-angle glaucoma, poses a higher risk for people with diabetes. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to changes in the eye’s structure and blood flow, contributing to increased intraocular pressure (IOP), a major risk factor for glaucoma.
Rapid fluctuations in blood glucose can lead to temporary blurred vision due to swelling or changes in the lens shape. Vison typically returns to normal once glucose levels stabilize. Additionally, nerve damage affecting the eye muscles can cause double vision, which may be correctable with glasses. Uncontrolled blood glucose also heightens the risk of blocked blood vessels in the eye which can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness.
Early detection is key in preventing diabetic eye disease. The CDC reports that about 90% of vision loss from diabetes can be prevented. Remarkably, the micro-vessels of the eye are, uniquely, the only place diabetes is directly observable without cutting into the body. Therefore, all people with diabetes should have an annual optometric exam to check for diabetic eye disease, along with regular care and management with their primary care provider.
Take the first step to protect your vision and schedule your annual diabetic eye exam today. Call Southwest Health’s Darlington Eye Center at 608.776.4413 to make your appointment.
