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Diabetes Eyes

Diabetes can affect the eye in numerous ways. The most common consequences of diabetes in the eye are cataract and diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy refers to the changes that occur in the retina due to poor blood flow and leaky blood vessels.

These changes can affect sight but early changes which are treatable will not be noted by a diabetic patient. It is therefore essential for diabetic patients to have their eyes routinely tested by an Ophthalmologist.

Most retinal diseases can be treated with laser and injections into the eye. Some of the changes in the retina are only responsive to surgery. Dr Ladner does not perform retinal surgery but will refer you to a colleague if this is necessary.

What is Diabetic Eye Disease?

Diabetes damages blood vessels all over your body. Diabetic eye diseases are a group of conditions that affect people who have diabetes. Damage to your eyes will start when sugar related damage starts blocking the tiny blood vessels that go to your retina. This will then cause them to leak fluid or bleed.

Over time, diabetes can cause damage to your eyes that in-turn leads to poor vision and in some cases, even blindness. Here is a list of eye diseases that affect diabetic patients.

Diabetic retinopathy – This occurs when damaged blood vessels harm the retina

Cataracts – Cataracts are cloudy lenses that are more likely to develop in diabetics.

Glaucoma – This is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve

Macular oedema – Diabetes leads to swelling in the macular which is the part of your retina that you need for driving, seeing faces and reading. 

Tips to help prevent diabetic eye disease

Diabetes can have extremely detrimental effects on your vision. Proactively take control of your health and reduce the risk of getting diabetic eye diseases. Here are a few ways you can improve your eye health.

  1. Manage and control your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose
  2. Smokers should get help to quit smoking
  3. Visit your ophthalmologist and have a comprehensive dilated eye exam once a year
  4. Exercise regularly
  5. Eat healthily

Diabetic eye disease treatment in KZN

If you are in Durban and surrounding areas and need treatment for diabetic eye diseases, Dr Ladner will advise you on the best option for your specific needs. Early detection of diabetic eye diseases can go a long way in reducing your risk of blindness. We recommend regular follow-up consultations.

Consult your ophthalmologist immediately if you notice any changes in your vision. Diabetic retinopathy is preventable with early treatment so diabetic patients should see their eye doctor at least once a year for a complete eye exam. They will suggest a plan-of-action based on your type of diabetic eye disease.

Ophthalmologist in Durban

Should you, or someone you know experience any vision problems, set up an appointment with Dr Ladner today. He is a specialist ophthalmologist operating in the Berea, Durban and Kloof areas of KZN.

Dr Grant Ladner | Eye Surgeon