People with diabetes do not produce or respond to insulin, a hormone that delivers glucose to the body’s cells. This condition results in high glucose concentrations in the bloodstream, which threatens the integrity of the vessels and nerves throughout the human body, including the eyes. If you are experiencing this condition, understanding common diabetic eye problems, such as diabetic retinopathy, can help you identify key symptoms and seek treatment early. 

How Does Diabetes Affect Your Vision?

1. Glaucoma 

People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma compared to those who don’t have the condition, making it one of the most common diabetic eye problems. This condition occurs when the fluid inside the eye fails to drain, causing pressure within it to rise. This pressure damages the optic nerve, which leads to vision loss. 

Diabetic patients are also susceptible to a specific type of glaucoma that can cause new blood vessels to grow on the iris. Your doctor may recommend medicine to reduce pressure or undergo surgery, depending on the type of glaucoma you have. 

2. Cataracts 

As people age, the lenses of the eyes tend to become cloudy. These cloudy lenses are called cataracts, and people with diabetes are likely to develop them earlier. Medical experts believe that high glucose levels cause deposits to build up in the lenses, which makes it one of the most prevalent diabetic eye problems. People experiencing this condition may have blurred vision, glare, and the inability of the eye to focus. 

3. Diabetic Retinopathy 

Diabetic retinopathy is considered the leading cause of vision loss in people with diabetes. High concentrations of sugar in the blood leaks fluid into the retina, which causes blurry and distorted vision. In its later stages, the retinal blood vessels close, and new, abnormal blood vessels are produced, leading to blindness. High blood pressure, uncontrolled high blood sugar levels, and smoking can increase the risk of developing this condition. For diabetic eye problems, early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of blindness by 95%. 

If you seek treatment for diabetic eye problems, rely on Tri-State Eye. Serving Milford, PA, and Middletown, NY, this eye care expert uses state-of-the-art technology to treat a wide range of eye health issues like glaucoma, cataracts, and vision loss. Schedule an appointment by reaching out to their Middletown location at (845) 703-2020 or their Milford location at (570) 296-9696. To learn more, visit their website.