EYE CONDITIONS explained
DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
This particular issue occurs when the small blood vessels in the retina become damaged and leak, the retina swells and new leaky blood vessels grow. According to the most recent Blue Mountains Eye Study it affects one in three people with diabetes and if it’s undetected or left untreated, it can progress to irreversible vision loss and blindness.
Evidence suggests the longer you live with diabetes and how well you manage your BGLs and blood pressure will have the greatest impact on your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Genetics and lifestyle factors like obesity and heavy alcohol consumption can also influence your risk.
There are often no signs or symptoms in the early stages, which is why Optometry Australia recommends twiceyearly eye examinations to monitor for changes.
Treatment is available to prevent permanent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy and includes laser therapy, freezing or eye surgery.
MACULAR OEDEMA
Your retina may swell if the fluid in its centre (macula) builds up, resulting in diabetic macular oedema. This affects your ability to read and is the leading cause of vision loss. The Blue Mountains Eye Study found one in 23 people with diabetes developed this issue.
To learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatments, download the free Diabetic Macular Oedema Xplained app developed by diabetes experts. Available on Google Play or iTunes.
CATARACTS
This clouding of the eye lens results in blurred vision. People with diabetes are more prone to developing cataracts, but they can also develop due to ageing, smoking and over exposure to UV light.
Cataracts are removed by laser or traditional surgery. Special eye drops that shrink and dissolve cataracts are currently being developed.
GLAUCOMA
Over 300,000 Australians have some form of glaucoma, which is a group of eye diseases occurring when the optic nerve connecting the eyes and brain deteriorates. The most common type leads to reduced vision.
Researchers are undecided if there’s a clear link between diabetes and glaucoma, as the condition can affect anyone.
Although there’s no cure as such, there are ways to control and reduce further vision loss. Common preventive methods include eye drops, medication, laser treatment and surgery.