As most people know, diabetes affects a person’s daily life in many ways, such as through insulin injections or the strict diet that many diabetes patients must follow.
Over time, the small blood vessels in the body – the so-called microcirculation – in many organs are permanently damaged.
Diabetes affects the whole body, especially the eyes. The retina can be damaged, leading to retinopathy.
Diabetes can damage not only the retina but also the smallest arteries in the eyes.
Diabetic retinopathy is the disease of the retina caused by diabetes. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness. Diabetics are very prone to retinal damage.
Diabetic changes in the eyes must and can be detected in time. This makes it possible, with the help of modern medicine, to preserve vision.
Causes
Due to the elevated blood sugar level, fat and protein substances are deposited in the vessel wall. This leads to a thickening of the wall. Blood then usually leaks from so-called vessel bulges. The retina can swell – this is called non-proliferative retinopathy. The vascular changes are still limited to the retina, which is why the patient does not yet notice any negative changes in vision.
As soon as the patient notices such changes, we strongly advise them to see a doctor. We, your eye doctor in Frankfurt, are happy to assist you in such a situation.
With a persistently decreasing blood supply, the oxygen supply to the retina will deteriorate further. As a result, new blood vessels form. The body tries to keep the blood supply to the retina intact, but without success. This type of diabetic retinopathy is called the proliferative form. The body’s attempt to maintain circulation in the retina fails. The newly formed vessels have thin or weak walls, and blood vessels that have grown into the vitreous humor burst. In most cases, this leads to loss of vision. Patients often begin to see blurred. In some cases, it can lead to blindness.
Diabetes and the eyes, as you can see, are closely connected. One affects the other in a severe way.
High blood pressure is also a serious risk factor in diabetic retinopathy, and there are links between diabetes, blood pressure, and the eyes here as well.
What can be done to prevent the negative effects of diabetes on the eyes?
Both good blood sugar control and regular blood pressure checks are very important. In addition, exercise and weight loss have a positive effect on blood sugar levels. If your eye doctor in Frankfurt prescribes you medication, please take it regularly.
In summary, good blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are very important to prevent the negative effects of diabetes on the eyes.
You can come to us, your eye doctor in Frankfurt, for a preliminary examination – we are always happy to help. We will also discuss with you which blood sugar levels are sensible in your case and will gladly answer all your questions about diabetes and the eyes.
Your eye doctor in Frankfurt can detect whether diabetes has damaged the retina with the help of an ophthalmoscopy.
To check your eyes for issues related to diabetes, your eyes will be thoroughly examined. Your eye doctor in Frankfurt will usually check the front section of your eyes, the back of your eyes, and of course your visual acuity.
We hope that you now feel well informed about diabetes and the eyes. In summary, retinal damage is one of the most common consequences for diabetes patients. One should therefore be as cautious as possible and try to detect the damage as early as possible to avoid severe vision problems.
Take advantage of our retinal examination offer. Your eye doctor in Frankfurt will be happy to advise you.
Book an appointment online now.