Every November, communities across the country recognize Diabetes Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness about the impact of diabetes on overall health, including one of the most crucial senses we rely on daily: our vision.
For millions of Americans living with diabetes, maintaining eye health is an essential part of managing their condition. At SightMD Pennsylvania, we’re committed to helping patients understand how diabetes can affect the eyes and how early detection, consistent monitoring, and healthy lifestyle choices can protect your sight for years to come.
How diabetes affects your eyes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that impacts how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can damage the delicate blood vessels in the eyes, leading to a number of vision-threatening conditions. The most common diabetic eye diseases include:
• Diabetic retinopathy: This condition occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. In its early stages, it may not cause symptoms, but it can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
• Diabetic macular edema (DME): As retinopathy progresses, fluid can leak into the macula — the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision — causing swelling and vision distortion.
• Cataracts: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age than those without the condition. Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred or dim vision.
• Glaucoma: Diabetes also increases the risk of glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve and can lead to permanent vision loss, often without noticeable early symptoms.
Early detection is key
One of the most alarming aspects of diabetic eye disease is that it often develops without warning signs. You may not notice any changes in your vision until the disease has already progressed. That’s why early detection through regular eye exams is critical.
A comprehensive, dilated eye exam can detect the earliest signs of diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions, even before symptoms appear. At SightMD Pennsylvania, our ophthalmologists use advanced imaging technology and diagnostic tools to examine the retina, optic nerve, and other parts of the eye for changes related to diabetes.
Lifestyle choices that support eye health
While diabetes poses risks to your vision, there are steps you can take to protect your eyes and reduce the likelihood of developing complications:
• Keep blood sugar under control: Maintaining your target blood glucose levels is one of the most effective ways to prevent or slow the progression of diabetic eye disease.
• Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol can compound the damage to blood vessels in the eyes, so managing these levels is essential.
• Stay physically active: Regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves circulation,, which benefits your eyes as well as your overall health.
• Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help support eye health and blood sugar control.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can accelerate the progression of diabetic complications, including vision problems. Quitting smoking reduces your risk significantly.
Did you know?
• More than 34 million Americans have diabetes, and over 7.7 million have diabetic retinopathy — a leading cause of blindness among working-age adults.
• Up to 95% of vision loss from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented through early detection, timely treatment, and proper follow-up care.
• People with diabetes are two to five times more likely to develop cataracts than those without diabetes.
What to expect during a diabetic eye exam
A diabetic eye exam at SightMD Pennsylvania goes beyond a routine vision check. Here’s what you can expect:
• Dilation of the pupils to allow a clear view of the retina and optic nerve.
• Retinal imaging or optical coherence tomography (OCT) to capture detailed images of the eye’s internal structures.
• Assessment for signs of bleeding, fluid leakage or swelling in the retina.
• Discussion of your health history, current diabetes management and any visual symptoms you may be experiencing.
Based on the results, our eye care specialists will recommend a personalized care plan, which may include closer monitoring, lifestyle modifications or treatment options such as laser therapy or injections to manage retinal damage.
Don’t wait for symptoms — schedule your eye exam
If you or a loved one has diabetes, don’t wait until vision problems arise to take action. Routine eye exams are your best defense against permanent vision loss. Even if your blood sugar is well controlled, the effects of diabetes on the eyes can be subtle and progressive.
At SightMD Pennsylvania, we provide comprehensive care for patients with diabetes and are here to help you protect your sight every step of the way. Our experienced team of ophthalmologists offers advanced diagnostics, compassionate support, and cutting-edge treatments to help preserve and enhance your vision.
Take the first step toward better eye health
Diabetes Awareness Month is the perfect time to take charge of your eye health. Early detection saves sight — and it starts with scheduling an eye exam.
Call us today or visit our website to book an appointment with one of our trusted doctors. Whether you’re newly diagnosed with diabetes or have been managing it for years, we’ll work with you to ensure your vision is protected for the long term.
Your eyes deserve expert care. Let SightMD Pennsylvania be your partner in protecting them.
SightMD has an office at 1300 Broadcasting Road, Spring Township. Call 610-396-9999 or visit sightmd.com to book your appointment. Together, we can help your child see the world more clearly.