5 Eye Conditions Caused By Diabetes

This November is American Diabetes Month. Your eye doctors in Mesa and Chandler use this time to encourage clients with diabetes to take care of their vision. Make an appointment with our ophthalmologists at Swagel Wootton Eye Institute to seek care right away if you notice any unusual change in vision.

It may take up to 10 years for diabetic eye disorders to develop. Uncontrolled blood sugar can develop into symptoms that affect your vision. To avoid major damage, visit your eye doctor regularly. Here is more about five eye conditions caused by diabetes to help you determine if it’s time to make an appointment.

1. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy describes damage to the blood vessels in your retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the rear of the eye. While early stages of diabetic retinopathy are asymptomatic, it can eventually cause blindness if left untreated.

Eye doctors in Mesa and Chandler can track the progress of this disease by dilating your eyes every few months. if you receive a diagnosis of this disease, take immediate steps to control high blood pressure, cholesterol and your diabetes.

2. Cataracts

Nearly twice as many people with diabetes contract cataracts than other adults. Cataracts also impact those with diabetes at a younger age. High blood sugar causes proteins and cells to build up on your eye lenses. However, a strict control of glucose levels can prevent the early onset of cataracts.

At Swagel Wootton Eye Institute, we have several procedures available for the treatment and prevention of cataracts. Our eye doctors in Mesa and Chandler also perform traditional or laser surgery to remove cataracts.

3. Pregnant Women With Diabetes

Pregnant women with diabetes run a higher risk for developing vision loss and diabetic retinopathy. Have an eye exam in your first trimester and follow the instructions of your eye doctor regarding whether to come in for an examination later in the pregnancy. If you develop gestational diabetes, you don’t have the same risk as women who have diabetes prior to becoming pregnant.

4. Double Vision

Diabetes causes circulatory damage and paralysis of the muscles that control your eyes. This can cause a number of symptoms including double vision that lasts a few weeks or a few days depending on the severity of your condition. You can prevent or reduce double vision due to diabetes by maintaining your blood sugar levels and taking your medicine as prescribed.

5. Eye Infections

Controlling your diabetes is very important. Diabetes impacts your body’s immune system and can lower your ability to prevent eye infections. Those with diabetes often get conjunctivitis and other infections more frequently than other people. Washing your hands frequently and monitoring your blood sugar levels can help prevent eye infections.

Treatment for Diabetic Eye Conditions and Diseases

Contact Swagel Wootton Eye Institute for treatment of diabetic retinopathy and related conditions. Our experienced eye doctors in Mesa and Chandler have several treatment options such as injections and laser therapy. We are a full-service eye clinic serving clients in the greater Phoenix area.