Does Diabetes Affect the Eyes? Diabetic Retinopathy and Eye Complications

When blood sugar begins to stay above normal levels, the retinal capillaries—one of the smallest vessels in the body—are directly affected. Long-term uncontrolled blood sugar can trigger diabetic retinopathy, which may progress to permanent vision loss.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

This is a medical term describing structural damage in retinal vessels caused by high blood sugar. At the beginning, only microscopic bleeding and protein leakage outside the vessels may be seen; the patient may not feel any symptoms. As the process progresses, new but fragile vessels form, dark spots appear in the visual field, and sudden bleeding may occur.

Other Changes Diabetes Causes in the Eye

• Early cataract development: Uncontrolled diabetes disrupts lens transparency
• Glaucoma risk: High blood sugar increases intraocular pressure and paves the way for glaucoma
• Temporary changes in refractive errors: Frequent blood sugar fluctuations can cause vision to change during the day
• Dry eye and susceptibility to infection

Signs That Diabetes Is Affecting the Eyes

• Sudden or fluctuating vision impairment
• Perception of halos around lights and floaters
• Noticeable decrease in night vision
• Fading of colors
• Double vision

Treatment Methods

Laser photocoagulation closes leaking vessel points. Intravitreal anti-VEGF injections suppress new vessel formation. Vitrectomy surgery is preferred in patients with severe bleeding or retinal detachment to save vision. People diagnosed with diabetes should have a retinal check-up at least once a year from the very beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions