Diabetes is the Leading Cause of Blindness in 20 – 74 Year Olds

The statistic that “diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults ages 20–74 years” is startling. Those recently diagnosed with diabetes mellitus may be overwhelmed with the level of care they must provide for their body, but being dismissive can lead to devastating eye problems.

High blood sugar increases the risk of diabetes related eye problems. It causes the lens of a person’s eye to swell, which can result in temporary blurred vision. Getting your blood sugar under control can restore your normal vision, but this can take months. It is imperative that before and after each meal you check your levels to keep the blood sugar in the correct range.

Blurred vision may, however, be a symptom of a more severe eye problem; one that might not go away with time. Cataracts and glaucoma are eye diseases that can result from diabetes mellitus if you do not go to regular ophthalmology visits.

Developing cataracts, a clouding of the lens, will make it very difficult to focus as it creates a blurred vision field. Although, cataracts are typically associated with older folks, diabetes doesn’t discriminate and anyone who doesn’t keep their blood sugar under control can develop cataracts. The treatment is typically surgery with a lens implant.

Glaucoma occurs when the fluid inside the eye isn’t able to drain properly. This causes pressure on the nerves, which can result in a change of vision. Unfortunately, there are no symptoms of glaucoma until the disease is advanced and there is an apparent loss of vision. Those who are diagnosed with diabetes will be under careful watch and continually monitored with glaucoma screenings during their eye doctor visits.

There are so many reasons to keep up with your diabetes management. There is no reason that anyone should suffer from eye disease because of their diabetes. Being attentive to your care, making and keeping eye doctor appointments will help you keep your eyes safe.

http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/statistics/#Blindness

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