Diabetes affects almost 40% of the general population and can affect every part of the body. Similarly it can affect every part of the eye. Individuals with uncontrolled blood sugar can have frequent allergies of the eye and boils in the eyelids. Diabetes can also cause cataract to occur at an earlier age than normal.
The nerve layer of the eye called the retina functions like the film of the camera. The serious eye defect due to diabetes occurs in the retina. This is called diabetic retinopathy.
Individuals at high risk for Diabetic Retinopathy are those who have poorly controlled blood sugar values for a long time, kidney disorders, blood pressure, anemia and high cholesterol levels.
The initial stages of the disease are usually asymptomatic where the presence of Diabetic Retinopathy can only be picked up by an ophthalmologist after a thorough examination of the eyes. It is only when the disease is very advanced that vision is affected permanently. Initial symptoms, when present, include poor vision and difficulties in reading. Advanced disease results in complete permanent loss of vision.
Every individual with diabetes must have an eye checkup done at least once in a year. Early identification of disease and treatment with lasers or injections are capable of preserving vision but advanced disease results in permanent vision loss. This loss of vision in diabetic retinopathy can be easily prevented if the disease is diagnosed in its early stages.
Generally, people with mild NPDR do not have any visual loss. A dilated eye exam is the only way to detect changes inside the eye before loss of vision begins. People with diabetes should have an eye examination at least once a year. More frequent exams may be necessary after diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed.
