Diabetes commonly affects the eyes and, if left untreated, may cause temporary vision changes or complete blindness. Since many eye problems related to diabetes often go undetected until an eye exam, diabetics should know about diabetic eye conditions and associated risk factors.
Eye Exams
The doctor's technician will gather information, perform vision tests and dilate both pupils. The doctor examines the front and back of the eye with a slit lamp, a special microscope designed for the eyes, allowing him to look closely at the back of the eye. If the doctor finds problems related to diabetes or other conditions, he will discuss the changes and treatment options.
Vision Changes
High or low blood sugar levels cause vision changes. Inside, near the front, sits the natural lens of the eye, responsible for focusing on objects in the distance and close up. If blood sugar increases or decreases, the lens expands and contracts, changing vision. For some diabetics, vision changes may be the first sign of a change in glucose levels.
Retinopathy
The retina lines the back of the eye and plays a major role in providing good, clear vision, and diabetic retinopathy affects the blood vessels on the retina. Some diabetics have a significant number of new capillaries grow on the top surface of the retina, while others have blood vessels that swell and eventually leak. Diabetics may have both types of retinopathy at the same time.
Treatment
If vision fluctuates due to high or low blood sugar levels, this can only be treated through good blood sugar control. Doctors treat diabetic retinopathy by using a laser to stop blood vessel changes in the back of the eye. The laser procedure may take 10 minutes or longer, depending on the extent of the retinopathy. Most doctors numb the eye prior to the procedure, and a technician patches the eye afterward. She will also give specific instructions about removing the patch and any necessary follow up. Vision may appear blurry for a few days after the laser procedure, but should return to pre-laser vision over time.
Prevention
Doctors cannot always predict who will have eye problems related to diabetes, but they do know that maintaining good control over blood sugars and blood pressure decreases the risks of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetics should have a complete eye exam once a year, or more frequently if recommended. As well, diabetics with sudden vision changes need to contact an eye doctor for an immediate examination.
