Diabetic Eye Disease: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Vision

Diabetic eye disease is one of the most common complications of diabetes, but many people don’t realize they have it until their vision starts to change. That’s why early action matters so much. 

By understanding the warning signs and taking preventive steps, you can protect your eyesight and reduce the risk of long-term damage. At Negrey Eye Associates in Havertown, Pennsylvania, the experienced team provides personalized care to help you safeguard your vision and overall eye health.

What is diabetic eye disease?

Diabetic eye disease refers to several eye problems that result from having diabetes. 

The most common of these is diabetic retinopathy, which affects the blood vessels in the retina. The retina is the part of your eye that senses light and sends images to your brain. When those blood vessels become damaged due to high blood sugar, your vision can suffer.

Over time, these tiny vessels can swell, leak, or become blocked entirely. In more advanced stages, new, abnormal blood vessels may begin to grow, often leading to scarring or retinal detachment. The process can occur gradually, and you may not notice symptoms immediately. That’s why regular eye exams are so important, even if your vision seems fine.

Other common complications

Diabetic eye disease doesn’t stop at retinopathy. Diabetes also increases your risk of developing other eye issues like diabetic macular edema, which causes swelling in the part of your retina responsible for sharp vision. 

You may also be more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age or face a higher risk for glaucoma, a condition that puts pressure on the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss if untreated.

Why regular eye exams matter

The best way to catch diabetic eye disease early is through a comprehensive eye exam. During the exam, we examine the retina for signs of damage and may use specialized imaging tools to obtain a closer look at the blood vessels inside your eye. These appointments can detect problems long before you notice any symptoms.

Adults with diabetes should get a dilated eye exam at least once a year. If we notice early signs of damage, we may recommend more frequent follow-ups to monitor the situation. Even if your blood sugar is well controlled, it’s still important to keep up with these exams. Damage can develop quietly and progress without pain or noticeable symptoms.

What you can do right now

Managing your blood sugar is the most important step you can take to protect your eyes. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in your retina over time. By keeping your levels in a healthy range, you reduce your risk of developing retinopathy and other related conditions.

In addition to controlling blood sugar, it’s also important to monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These factors affect blood flow throughout your body, including the small vessels in your eyes. Don’t skip your eye exams, and speak up if you notice any vision changes, even small ones.

Lifestyle habits also make a difference. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, avoiding smoking, and following your diabetes care plan all work together to support your eye health.

Protecting your vision starts today

Diabetic eye disease doesn’t have to lead to blindness, especially when you take steps early. With regular eye care, good diabetes management, and a strong relationship with your healthcare team, you can catch problems early and protect your vision for years to come. Call our office, or schedule your appointment online today.