Diabetes is a health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can affect various aspects of their well-being, including eyesight.

The relationship between diabetes and vision health is complex, with the potential to lead to several serious eye conditions if not properly managed.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, detection methods, and the importance of regular eye check-ups is essential for anyone living with diabetes.

How Does Diabetes Affect Eyesight?

Diabetes affects eyesight by causing changes in blood vessels within the eye or by prompting the growth of new, abnormal vessels in the retina which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. 

The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage these tiny vessels, leading to diabetic eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema (DMO). Cataracts and glaucoma can also occur more often in diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes and Eyesight

Symptoms of diabetic eye diseases can vary depending on the condition but may include:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Spots or dark strings floating in your vision (floaters)

• Vision loss

It's critical to note that in the early stages, diabetic eye diseases often exhibit no symptoms. This silent progression underscores the importance of regular eye examinations for early detection.

Detecting Diabetic Eye Diseases

Diabetes poses significant risks to eyesight, making regular eye check-ups an essential component of diabetes management. Through early detection, appropriate treatment, and ongoing monitoring, individuals with diabetes can protect their vision and maintain a high quality of life.

Early detection of diabetic eye diseases involves a comprehensive eye exam that includes:

• Vision testing

• Dilated eye exam to closely examine the retina and optic nerve

• Tonometry to measure eye pressure, important for glaucoma detection

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to obtain detailed images of the retina, aiding in the diagnosis of DMO and retinal changes due to diabetes 

For individuals with diabetes, it's recommended to have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision loss.

The Importance of Regular Eye Check-Ups

Regular eye check-ups are vital for individuals with diabetes. These exams not only facilitate the early detection and treatment of diabetic eye diseases but also provide an opportunity to monitor and manage the progression of these conditions.

By maintaining tight control over blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, individuals can significantly lower their risk of developing serious eye problems.

How London Eye Centres Can Help

The London Eye Centres offer world-class ophthalmic care, including comprehensive services tailored to the needs of individuals with diabetes.

The team of highly skilled consultants, Professor Riaz Asaria, Mr Zine Elhousseini, and Mr Jignesh Patel, bring unparalleled expertise in diagnosing and treating diabetic eye diseases.

The collaborative approach of The London Eye Centres ensures that each patient receives personalised care designed to preserve and improve their vision. Patients benefit from access to cutting-edge technology and treatment modalities, all within a supportive and caring environment 

With a strong emphasis on accountability, transparency, and clinical governance, our team provide a range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema. These services include:

• Medical Retina Services: Specialised care for diabetic retinopathy and DMO, employing the latest in pharmacotherapy and laser treatments.

• Surgical Retina Services: Advanced surgical solutions for more severe cases, including vitrectomy procedures to address complications of diabetic eye disease. 

• Comprehensive Eye Exams: Regularly scheduled exams to monitor the health of the eyes and the effectiveness of treatment strategies.