Looking at Diabetes & Eye Health

Did you know that diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in Australians under the age of 60? Yet few people realise the connection between diabetes and eye health. This year's Diabetes Awareness Week aims to highlight the link between diabetes and the eyes. With more than 3 million or one in four Australian adults over the age of 25 having either diabetes or pre-diabetes (impaired glucose intolerance), diabetes impact on eye health could do with a closer look.

How does diabetes affect eye health

High blood glucose levels changes the shape of the lens in the eyes, temporarily causing blurred vision. This blurred vision is common before diabetes is diagnosed or when diabetes is poorly controlled. When blood glucose levels are reduced though diet, exercise and/or medications, the blurriness usually disappears. Persistently high blood glucose levels can increase the risk of developing the following eye conditions:

• Cataracts: result from changes to the lens that produce clouding, which decreases visual acuity. People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at a younger age.
• Retinopathy: High blood glucose levels affect the blood vessels supplying the retina, a light sensitive tissue lining the inner surface of the eye. These blood vessels weaken and narrow, causing blood and fluid to leak into the eye, a condition called retinopathy. Over the longer term, major haemorrhage can occur leading to retinal detachment and even permanent loss of eyesight. The development of retinopathy is strongly related to the length of time diabetes has been present and the degree of blood glucose control.
• Glaucoma: an eye disease in which the optic nerve (which transmits electrical impulses from the retina to the brain) is damaged. While glaucoma can affect anybody, it appears to be more common in people with diabetes. In people with diabetes, glaucoma can develop as a result of severe diabetic retinopathy.

Tips for looking after your eyes:

1. Manage your blood sugar levels: Make a commitment to managing your diabetes by finding the time for healthy eating and physical activity each day. Take oral medications or insulin as directed and check and record your blood sugar levels several times each day. Regular monitoring is the only way to make sure that your blood sugar levels remain within your target range. Your GP can help you determine how often to test your blood sugar levels.
2. Control blood pressure: While most of us know that controlling our blood pressure is good for our heart, few realise how important it is for protecting our eyesight. High blood pressure can increase your risk of diabetic retinopathy in people with diabetes.
3. Quit smoking: Giving up cigarettes can improve the health of your eyes, reducing your risk of developing cataracts and retinopathy in people with diabetes. To help you quit smoking today call the Quitline today on 137848.
4. Get your eyes checked: Make sure you schedule for your yearly eye check up. If you experience any sudden vision changes or if your vision becomes hazy, blurry or spotty, contact your doctor straight away.