There are many complications of diabetes and one of them is diabetic retinopathy that causes vision loss and blindness. It affects the blood vessels in the retina. That’s why it’s imperative that you get a comprehensive eye exam that includes dilation of the eye at least once a year.
The longer you have diabetes and the less well-controlled it is, the more likely you are to experience vision problems. Diabetic retinopathy causes scar tissue that can actually cause the retina to pull away from the back of the eye. At first, you won’t notice any symptoms at all. As the condition progresses, it results in symptoms that can include:
- Blurred vision
- Dark or “empty” areas in your line of vision
- Fluctuating vision
- Impaired color vision
- Spots, strings, and “floaties” in your vision
- Vision loss
Too much sugar in your blood blocks the tiny blood vessels behind your eye and cuts off blood supply to the area. In the early stages, blood vessels bulge, they may leak blood into the eye, and nerve fibers are affected.
In the latter stages, your body will try to create new blood vessels, but they don’t develop correctly, form scar tissue, and pressure may build up leading to glaucoma – one of the most common causes of blindness if you’re 60 or over.
You’re at additional risk if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoke. If you’re African-American, Hispanic, or Native American, your chances of developing diabetes and diabetic retinopathy increases. Pregnancy can exacerbate diabetic retinopathy and your eye doctor may want more frequent vision exams throughout your pregnancy.
The most effective way to prevent diabetic retinopathy and vision loss is through the careful control of your diabetes. Even if your vision seems fine, you need an eye exam each year. Your eye doctor can detect the condition in the early stages, allowing you to take appropriate action.
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