How Diabetes Affects Eye Health

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While most are aware of its impact on blood sugar levels, many don’t realize that diabetes can also severely affect eye health, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes-related eye disease that damages the blood vessels in the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, high blood sugar levels weaken and block these tiny blood vessels, leading to vision problems and even blindness if left untreated.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

  1. Mild Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: Small bulges (microaneurysms) form in retinal blood vessels, causing minor leakage.

  2. Moderate Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: Blood vessels swell and distort, impairing blood flow to the retina.

  3. Severe Non-Proliferative Retinopathy: More blood vessels become blocked, depriving the retina of oxygen.

  4. Proliferative Retinopathy (Advanced Stage): New, fragile blood vessels grow, leading to bleeding, retinal detachment, and severe vision loss.

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy

  • Blurred or fluctuating vision
  • Dark spots or floaters
  • Poor night vision
  • Difficulty perceiving colors
  • Vision loss (in advanced stages)

Risk Factors

  • Duration of Diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, the higher the risk.
  • Poor Blood Sugar Control: Unmanaged glucose levels accelerate damage.
  • High Blood Pressure & Cholesterol: Increases retinal damage.
  • Pregnancy: Can worsen retinopathy in diabetic women.
  • Smoking & Obesity: Additional risk factors for progression.

Prevention & Treatment

1. Regular Eye Exams

Annual diabetic eye screenings can detect early signs before symptoms appear.

2. Blood Sugar & Blood Pressure Control

Maintaining healthy glucose and blood pressure levels slows progression.

3. Healthy Lifestyle

  • Balanced diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Avoiding smoking

4. Medical Treatments

  • Laser Treatment (Photocoagulation): Seals leaking blood vessels.
  • Anti-VEGF Injections: Reduces abnormal blood vessel growth.
  • Vitrectomy: Removes blood from the vitreous in advanced cases.

Visit Hi-Tech Eye Surgery Center for Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment

At Hi-Tech Eye Surgery Center, a leading eye care center in Pune, we specialize in advanced diabetic retinopathy treatment using cutting-edge technology. Our expert ophthalmologists provide personalized care to prevent vision loss and restore eye health.

📍 Locations: Undri & Kondhwa

Don’t let diabetes steal your vision! Schedule a diabetic eye screening today at Hi-Tech Eye Surgery Center—your trusted eye care hospital in Pune.