Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye problems that can affect people with diabetes. These problems include diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. Diabetic retinopathy is the most common type of diabetic eye disease and is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina. This damage can cause the blood vessels to leak or close, which can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated.

Diabetic macular edema is another type of diabetic eye disease that occurs when fluid leaks into the macula, which is the part of the eye that allows us to see fine details. This can also lead to vision loss if left untreated. Cataracts are also more common in people with diabetes. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, which can cause blurred vision. Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss if not treated.

It is important for people with diabetes to have regular eye exams with an eye doctor or ophthalmologist. Early detection and treatment of diabetic eye disease can help prevent vision loss and blindness. Managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can also help reduce the risk of developing diabetic eye disease.