The American Diabetes Association reports that diabetics are at a higher risk for blindness and other eye problems. Still, diabetic eye disease is manageable and most people only have mild eye complications. Yearly checkups including pupil dilation and retina exams are recommended; the symptoms of eye problems are often not noticeable until the condition progresses for several years. Early detection and treatment is required to prevent further complications.
Retina Damage
Diabetic retinopathy, the most common eye disorder, results from high levels of blood sugar causing eye vessels to weaken, become clogged and leak fluid, according to the National Institutes of Health. Adequate blood flow does not reach the retina. The body compensates by growing additional vessels. These vessels are also weak and continue to leak fluid and blood into the vitreous, the clear substance in the back of the eye. The leaking vessels cause vision blockage. The condition may temporarily correct itself; however, medical attention and possible surgery is still required. As retinopathy progresses over time the weak blood vessels form scar tissue which may pull and detach the retina from the back of the eye. A diabetic may see "floaters"--either dots of black space or actual floating specks of blood in his vision. Left untreated, a detached retina must be medically treated or total vision loss will result.
Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye fogs or hazes over. The lens is responsible for focusing light onto the retina in the back of the eye. The condition is commonly attributed to aging. Still, diabetics suffer more often from cataracts and at an earlier age, reports the American Diabetes Association. Besides surgery there is no effective treatment for cataracts, according to the Mayo Clinic. Lifestyle changes, such as wearing sunglasses or using a magnifying glass, provide temporary relief until a cataract patient receives surgery. Surgery allows the damaged lens to be replaced with a synthetic one. The procedure should be considered when cataracts affect daily activities such as driving, reading and watching TV.
Glaucoma
The National Diabetes Association reports that people with diabetes are 40 percent more likely to suffer from glaucoma. The condition occurs when pressure builds up in the eye, which eventually damages the optic nerve. The initial symptom of diabetes is tunnel vision; a person loses left and right side peripheral vision. Treatments include medicated eye drops, which lower eye pressure, and laser surgery, according to the National Institutes of Health.
