Regular physical exercise provides a multitude of health benefits for most individuals. People with diabetes can experience vision loss due to a condition known as retinopathy. Activities, such as intense exercise, that increase the blood pressure in the eye vessels can increase the risk of vision problems. Exercise may affect blood glucose levels as well.
Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases that results in elevated levels of glucose in the blood. High blood pressure and blurred vision are two symptoms of diabetes. Additional symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss and fatigue. Although exercise can help prevent diabetes and control blood sugar levels, improper exercise may exacerbate vision problems.
Retinopathy
People who have diabetes are at an increased risk for certain eye diseases. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in American adults. High blood sugar levels can cause changes in the blood vessels of the eye, specifically in the retina. The injured blood vessels may leak blood or cause new, abnormal blood vessels to form in the eyes. Vision loss from diabetic retinopathy normally occurs in both eyes and may progress gradually.
Exercise
MayoClinic.com recommends diabetics exercise at a moderate level most days of the week. Regular exercise can help control blood sugar levels and reduce excess weight. However, strenuous exercise, such as intense weight lifting, can increase the blood pressure and damage the weakened blood vessels in diabetics with diabetic retinopathy.
Precautions
Regular physical checkups and eye exams are important practices in managing diabetes and its complications. Exercising at a moderate rate while frequently checking your blood sugar level can help you avoid diabetic complications. Getting your doctor's approval before beginning an exercise program may help uncover specific risk factors that can increase your risk of vision loss. Medical tests that help detect diabetic retinopathy include visual acuity tests, dilated eye exams and tonometry. Treatments for this condition consist of monitoring your blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar. Extensive vision loss may require a type of laser surgery known as scatter laser treatment. This procedure may help shrink abnormal and enlarged blood vessels.
