What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes Affecting Your Eyes?

Diabetes impacts many parts of the body, and your eyes are no exception. High blood sugar levels can damage delicate blood vessels and structures in the eyes, leading to vision changes and potentially serious eye conditions if left untreated. Because many diabetes-related eye problems develop gradually, it’s especially important to recognize early symptoms and schedule regular diabetic eye exams.

Understanding How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes

When blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, they can weaken or damage the small blood vessels that supply the eyes. This damage can lead to swelling, leakage, or abnormal blood vessel growth, all of which interfere with normal vision. Diabetes can also affect the eye’s ability to focus properly, causing temporary or lasting visual changes. Even if your vision seems fine, diabetes-related eye damage can begin before noticeable symptoms appear, making routine eye exams essential.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common causes of vision loss in people with diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage, swelling, or bleeding. In advanced stages, abnormal new blood vessels may grow, increasing the risk of permanent vision loss.

Cataracts

People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age. Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry or dim vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night.

Glaucoma

Diabetes increases the risk of glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure. Glaucoma often has no early symptoms but can cause permanent vision loss if untreated.

Symptoms of Diabetes Affecting Your Eyes

Some symptoms may seem mild at first, but they should never be ignored - especially if you have diabetes. Watch for:

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Difficulty focusing or frequent changes in prescription

• Dark spots, floaters, or strings in your vision

• Distorted or wavy vision

• Poor night vision

• Colors appearing faded or washed out

• Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

The Importance of Regular Diabetic Eye Exams

Many diabetes-related eye conditions develop without early warning signs. A diabetic eye exam allows your eye doctor to detect changes in the retina and other eye structures before vision is affected. Early detection makes treatment more effective and helps prevent permanent vision loss.

Annual diabetic eye exams are recommended for most patients with diabetes, though your eye doctor may suggest more frequent visits based on your individual eye health and blood sugar control.

Stay Ahead of Diabetes-Related Vision Changes at Vintage Optical

Diabetes can have a significant impact on your eye health, but vision loss is not inevitable. Recognizing symptoms early and committing to regular diabetic eye exams are key steps in protecting your sight. Even if your vision seems normal, ongoing monitoring is essential to catch problems before they become serious.

If you have diabetes or are experiencing changes in your vision, schedule a diabetic eye exam at Vintage Optical today. Click here, visit our office in Morton, Illinois, or call (309) 263-8611 to book and appointment.