Diabetes and Your Eyes: What You Need to Know

Because your blood sugar impacts more than just your blood, diabetes can cause blurry vision. It’s so common that it’s often one of the first signs people notice before they confirm their diagnosis. We’ll look at what you should know if you either have diabetes, are pre-diabetic, or suspect you might need an optometrist in Champaign, IL.

High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar can cause the lens of the eye to swell, temporarily causing your eyes to blur. While this will only last until you stabilize your blood sugar, the process of bringing it down to normal levels can take a few months.

Cataracts

Your odds of getting a cataract in one eye are relatively high regardless of whether you have diabetes. Still, those with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts, so it’s important to be aware of your individual risk. This condition will cloud the lens of your eyes, making it more difficult to see both colors and shapes.

Glaucoma

Similar to cataracts, glaucoma can happen to anyone. However, the risk of it developing is more likely if you have diabetes. With glaucoma, the issue is the optic nerve rather than the lens of the eyes. Much like your blood sugar, any excess pressure in the eye can damage its inner components.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Both people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are prone to getting this condition, one that affects the blood vessels in the back of the eye. Over time, the vessel damage can lead to tissue damage and then ultimately retina damage.

Find a Quality Optometrist in Champaign

If you’re looking for a diabetic retinopathy screening in Champaign, IL, Champaign Eye Professionals are here to help. The faster you catch any of the above issues, the easier they are to treat.