Can Diabetes Cause Blurred Vision?
June 6, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, diabetes can cause blurred vision. There are several mechanisms through which diabetes can affect vision:
- High Blood Sugar Levels: Elevated blood sugar levels can cause the lens inside the eye to swell, changing its shape and affecting the ability to focus. This can result in temporary blurred vision.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: This is a common complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Damage to these blood vessels can lead to leakage, swelling, and growth of new blood vessels, causing blurred vision and potentially leading to blindness if left untreated.
- Macular Edema: This occurs when fluid leaks into the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, causing it to swell and resulting in blurred vision.
- Cataracts: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cataracts, a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision.
- Glaucoma: Diabetes can increase the risk of glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. This damage is often associated with increased pressure in the eye and can lead to blurred vision.
If you have diabetes and experience blurred vision, it is important to consult an eye care professional promptly. Regular eye examinations are crucial for detecting and managing diabetic eye conditions early to prevent serious complications. Managing blood sugar levels effectively can also help reduce the risk of diabetes-related vision problems.