When it comes to diabetes, many have a grasp of the usual symptoms – such as increased thirst, frequent urination and fatigue. But there is one lesser-known warning sign to be mindful of.
Ophthalmologist Cindy Cai from The John Hopkins Hospital has highlighted an under-recognised eye problem that can stem from diabetes, amid concerns that it’s the ‘leading cause of blindness in American adults”. “We have great treatments for diabetic retinopathy,” Cai explained in an online blog.
“However, it is important to get regular eye examinations so that your doctor can offer you these treatments as soon as you might need them.” Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, driven by unchecked blood sugar levels in the back of the eye.
In time, this may damage the retina – a layer of photoreceptors crucial to our vision – with the potential to cause blindness if left undiagnosed. The NHS stresses that it would take ‘several years for diabetic retinopathy to reach a stage where it could threaten your sight’, though it’s important to get this treated.
The health body summarises: “The retina is the light-sensitive layer of cells at the back of the eye that converts light into electrical signals. The signals are sent to the brain which turns them into the images you see. The retina needs a constant supply of blood, which it receives through a network of tiny blood vessels.
“Over time, a persistently high blood sugar level can damage these blood vessels in three main stages[…] However, if a problem with your eyes is picked up early, lifestyle changes and treatment can stop it getting worse.”
Cai emphasised the importance of regular eye examinations and adopting measures to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. She recommended quitting smoking as a beneficial step for ocular health too.
“In addition to getting your eyes checked, it’s also very important to keep the blood sugars under control. This is not only good for you overall, but also good for your eyes,” she added.
Are you at risk of diabetic retinopathy? The NHS guidance is outlined below
People with either type one or type two diabetes are potentially at risk of developing this condition. This risk is exacerbated if you’ve:
- Have had diabetes for a long time
- Are pregnant
- Are of Asian or Afro-Caribbean background
- Have/had high blood pressure for a long time
- Have high cholesterol
- Are pregnant
