The complex structure of organs in our bodies demonstrates a strong link between diabetes and eye health. Individuals with diabetes must remain vigilant about their eye health, prioritising regular check-ups for a healthier life.
Diabetic Retinopathy is an eye disease caused by diabetes. It damages the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue present in the rear part of the retina. It is a serious sight-threatening disease. Diabetes gradually harms the body’s tiny blood vessels, including the retina. When these microscopic blood vessels leak blood and other fluids, it results in diabetic retinopathy. This leads to swelling of the retinal tissue, resulting in blurred vision.
There are two stages of Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Non-proliferative retinopathy:
is the initial stage and is characterised by swollen blood vessels in the retina. There is inadequate blood flow in the nerves leading to the damage. This results in temporary vision loss and can be treated under the guidance of an eye specialist.
- Proliferative retinopathy:
is the advanced stage where abnormal and new blood vessels start growing in the retina leading to excessive fluid flow (gel-like) in the vitreous chamber that can create vision loss. The condition requires immediate action.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
In the early stage of the disease you will witness no symptoms but as the disease proceeds these symptoms will come out:
- Dark spots (floaters) can be seen
- Blurred and fluctuated vision is more often
- Pain or pressure in both eyes
- Double vision
Diabetic retinopathy can lead to a state known as macular edema. It occurs when the central part of the retina swells and leaks fluid into the white portion leading to vision loss.
Who is at the Risk of Developing Diabetic Retinopathy?
A person suffering from type 1 and type 2 diabetes is at a high risk of developing the disease. If the diabetic person had high blood sugar levels for a prolonged time then the risk is very high. Over time more than half of the diabetic patients develop diabetic retinopathy. The condition can worse if neglected and can result in permanent vision loss. A Diabetic patient should visit regularly the ophthalmologist to refrain from the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed?
The following techniques can help in the early detection of disease:
- Test of Visual Acuity.
The standard eye chart test determines the ability to see centrally at different distances.
- Tonometry:
is a routine examination that measures the intraocular pressure within the eye.
- Pupil Dilation:
an examination that involves using eye drops to enlarge your pupil so the lens and retina of your eye can be examined up close.
- Ophthalmoscopy:
a procedure wherein your physician uses a specialised magnifying glass to examine the retina up close.
- Fluoresce Angiogram:
an examination in which the bloodstream is dyed organically to reveal the blood vessels in the eyes. This happens during a special camera photo session, and it will reveal to your doctor whether any retinal blood vessels are leaking or are no longer supplying certain areas of the retina.
- Tomography of Optical Coherence:
a test in which precise images of the retina are created using light waves.
At MM Joshi Eye Institute, Hubli, we have a team of expert ophthalmologists who can detect diabetic retinopathy in its early stage and recommend the effective and latest treatment according to the eye condition.
Who is at the Risk of Developing Diabetic Retinopathy?
A person suffering from type 1 and type 2 diabetes is at a high risk of developing the disease. If the diabetic person had high blood sugar levels for a prolonged time then the risk is very high. Over time more than half of the diabetic patients develop diabetic retinopathy. The condition can worse if neglected and can result in permanent vision loss. A Diabetic patient should visit regularly the ophthalmologist to refrain from the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
Treatments
Early detection and treatment can aid in disease recovery and prevent vision loss. The advanced stage necessitates immediate action because negligence can result in severe retinal damage that cannot be repaired. Some of the treatments available are as follows:
- Laser Treatment (Photocoagulation):
The laser treatment works well when there is no severe damage to the retina. The laser rays control the growth of abnormal blood vessels and also prevent the condition of macular edema. However, it remains ineffective in the case of advanced proliferative form.
- Vitrectomy (Surgery of vitreous gel):>
If the retina is not severely damaged, this surgery may help improve vision. When there is bleeding (vitreous haemorrhage) or retinal detachment, this procedure is performed. These two issues are uncommon in people with early-stage retinopathy. The surgery can also be used in case of scar formation and is effective in treating macular edema.
- Injections:
Certain injections can be used to reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels. These injections or medicines help to shrink the new blood vessels in proliferative cases.
MM Joshi Eye Institute uses a combination of treatments and provides the best treatment for easy recovery from diabetic retinopathy. Book your appointment before it’s too late.
Prevention From Diabetic Retinopathy
To prevent the onset of the disease a diabetic patient should get a diabetic eye examination once a year. The eye specialist will examine the eye thoroughly and can play a significant role in detecting early symptoms and timely intervention. In addition, you can also practice some healthy habits to prevent the development of the disease:
Take prescribed diabetes medicines regularly.
Follow a healthy diet plan to control the elevated blood sugar level.
Exercise regularly
Undergo the routine diabetes test, haemoglobin test, and urine for ketones.
Visit your doctor regularly for follow-ups
Maintain a healthy blood pressure level.
Conclusion
Recognising the connection between diabetes and eye health is crucial as excessive sugar levels can result in vision loss. Regular monitoring, early detection, and a holistic approach to diabetes care are key to preserving vision. MM Joshi Eye Institute Hubli takes into account the seriousness of the facts and works with a proactive approach to combat the development of diabetic retinopathy.
FAQs
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What is the link between sugar and eyesight?
High blood sugar levels can damage the retina and lead to the formation of abnormal blood vessels. These create excessive fluid discharge in the vitreous of the eyes leading to blurred vision and sometimes in severe cases can lead to permanent vision loss.
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Why do diabetics need eye care?
A diabetic should visit the eye doctor once a year to check the onset of any underlying eye disease arising due to an imbalanced blood sugar level. A thorough examination of the eye can help in early intervention and effective cure for the disease.
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Can sugar cause blurry vision?
Yes, high sugar levels for prolonged periods can result in blurry vision as it leads to the formation of abnormal blood vessels and damage to the central part of the retina. This in turn releases excessive fluid in the eyes and in severe cases can cause permanent vision loss.
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How do you control diabetes in the eyes?
You can reduce the impact of diabetes on your eyes by maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, good blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. A healthy life should be followed to control the underlying causes of diabetes.
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What foods are good for diabetic retinopathy?
Food rich in vitamins, fibre, and nutrients is good for maintaining good eye health. These include nuts, citrus fruits such as lemon, grapes, oranges, pineapple, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, dairy products and so on.
Author
MMJ Eye Institute