Diabetes and your eyes: why a yearly eye check matters
Diabetes is very common in Gujarat, and many people with diabetes never have their eyes checked until their vision changes. By then, some damage may already be done. The good news is that most diabetes-related eye problems can be found early with a simple, painless check.
How diabetes affects the eyes
High blood sugar over many years can harm the eyes in several ways:
- The retina: the tiny blood vessels at the back of the eye can leak or become blocked. This is called diabetic retinopathy, and in its early stages it usually causes no symptoms at all.
- Cataract: people with diabetes tend to develop cataracts earlier.
- Glaucoma: the risk of glaucoma is higher in people with diabetes.
- Changing vision: when sugar levels swing up and down, vision can blur temporarily and glasses numbers can seem to change.
Why you shouldn't wait for symptoms
Diabetic eye disease often stays silent until it is advanced. Vision can feel perfectly normal while changes are developing at the back of the eye. That's why a regular check matters even when you see well.
How often should you get your eyes checked?
- If you have diabetes, have an eye check at least once a year, or as often as your eye doctor advises.
- Pregnant women with diabetes may need more frequent checks.
- Get checked sooner if your vision changes, you see dark spots or floaters, or your sight becomes blurred and doesn't clear.
What happens at the check
The check is painless. Drops may be used to widen the pupil so the back of the eye can be examined properly. These drops can blur your vision for a few hours, so bring someone to accompany you, and avoid driving.
What you can do to protect your eyes
- Keep your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in the range your doctor advises.
- Take your diabetes medicines regularly.
- Don't smoke.
- Keep your yearly eye check appointment, even if you feel fine.
Next step
If you have diabetes and haven't had an eye check this year, call or WhatsApp to book one. Bring your recent sugar reports and a list of your medicines.