How Does Diabetes Affect Your Eyes?

Diabetes impacts more than just blood sugar - it can also have serious consequences for your vision and eye health. High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, leading to conditions that may cause vision loss if not detected early. Understanding these risks and prioritizing regular diabetic eye exams are essential to protecting your sight.

Diabetic Retinopathy

The most common eye disease caused by diabetes, retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. Early stages may not show symptoms, but over time, it can lead to vision impairment or blindness if untreated.

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

This condition happens when fluid builds up in the macula - the part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. DME can cause blurred vision and difficulty with daily tasks such as reading or driving.

Cataracts

While cataracts can develop in anyone, people with diabetes are more likely to develop them earlier and more quickly. Cataracts cloud the eye’s lens, leading to blurry or hazy vision.

Glaucoma

Diabetes doubles the risk of glaucoma, a condition where increased pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve. Without treatment, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss.

Why Regular Diabetic Eye Exams Are Essential

The tricky part about diabetic eye diseases is that they often progress silently - without pain or noticeable symptoms in the early stages. That’s why comprehensive eye exams are so important. At Drs. Hiura & Hiura Optometrists, we use advanced diagnostic tools to detect early changes in your eyes, even before you notice vision problems.

Catching issues early gives us the opportunity to recommend treatment, lifestyle changes, or monitoring to slow progression and preserve your vision. Skipping exams increases the risk of irreversible vision loss.

Protecting Your Vision with Expert Care

Managing your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol are all vital to protecting your vision. But just as important is making diabetic eye exams a regular part of your health routine. By partnering with an optometrist who understands the complexities of diabetes, you’re taking a proactive step to safeguard your sight.

Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam Today

Diabetes can have a significant impact on your eye health, but with regular care and early detection, many of these complications are preventable. Prioritizing diabetic eye exams is one of the best ways to protect your vision and maintain your quality of life.

Contact Drs. Hiura & Hiura Optometrists to schedule your diabetic eye exam and take control of your eye health. Visit our office in San Francisco, California, or call (415) 776-2352 to book an appointment today.