Diabetes and Your Eyes: Protecting Your Vision

The Sugar Connection

High blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This condition is called Diabetic Retinopathy.

Stages of Damage

In early stages, blood vessels may leak fluid, causing blurred vision. In advanced stages, new, fragile vessels grow and bleed, leading to scarring and potential retinal detachment.

Prevention is Possible

The good news is that 90% of diabetes-related blindness is preventable. The key is:

• Control: Keep blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol in check.
• Detect: Get a dilated eye exam every year. We can see changes before you notice any vision loss.