The presence of high blood sugar level in the body causes disorders to various parts of the body - one of which is eye. The prolonged prevalence of diabetes gradually begins to damage different parts of the eyes, including retina, lens, vitreous, optic nerve etc. Every so often, diabetes eye damage is called a 'silent' disease. Because the damage can be happening a long time prior to you detect any change in your vision. Diabetes may lead to frequent vision fluctuations, reduced vision because of the involvement of optic nerve, impermanent paralysis of the muscles controlling the movement of eyes and consequently double vision. People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop cataracts in young age as people without diabetes. By following strict dietary and medical guidelines, diabetics can stay away from eye problems and other dangerous complications caused by diabetes.

Diabetes has an effect on the eyes and vision in several ways. The most significant complication that affects vision and causes disorder of eye due to diabetes is commonly known as diabetic retinopathy. The gradual damage of eye starts with the damage of tiny blood vessels in the eye that leads to swelling, clogging, weakening and finally loss of vision. Loss of vision can also happen due to the breaking of new weaker blood vessels in the eye that leak to the vitreous at the back of the eye. As a result, light is barred from falling on retina so that floating objects or complete darkness is experienced. Other symptoms of eye problems include seeing flashing light, floating objects, blurry (curtained) vision, rings or blank spots and experiencing pain and pressure in the eyes. Retina damages can cause double vision.

Sometimes any one of the eyes may be seriously affected or may be both. Because diabetic patients are prone to eye problems, regular eye care exams and early treatment is required to delay or reduce the problem. Though cataract and glaucoma are seen in non-diabetic people, it is highly prone for people with diabetes even at younger ages. Checking for signs of glaucoma and cataract is very important for diabetic patients. An early diagnosis helps in treating the disease effectively with medications or surgeries. Laser surgeries or simple cataract surgeries helps in clearing your eyes and medications help in reducing pressure in the eye. Pregnant women with diabetes are advised to make regular eye exams with expert eye care professional. Since smoking can also increase the risk for developing eye problems, it is strictly recommended to quit smoking.

Eye problems due to diabetes can be controlled by following a responsive, healthy eating plan with the help of an expert dietician or your doctor. Green leafy vegetables, fruits, spinach, carrot, and iron fortified foods in the daily diet plan is important to take care of the health of your eyes. Keep away from foods that have high carbohydrate and sugar content. Beta-carotene rich foods as well as consuming fishes rich in omega 3 fatty acids help in preventing eye problems in future. Diabetics are also well advised to reject alcohol and smoking. It is compulsory for them to act in accordance with the prescribed medication. Making use of eye support supplements with all the essential ingredients for healthy eyes can work magic.


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