Introduction
Diabetes can affect vision in several ways, both temporarily and permanently, depending on blood sugar control and the presence of diabetic eye diseases. The visual experience varies depending on the specific condition affecting the eye.
1. Temporary Blurred Vision (Due to High Blood Sugar)
- Occurs when blood sugar levels fluctuate.
- High glucose causes the lens in the eye to swell, changing its shape and affecting the eye’s ability to focus.
- Symptoms:
- Sudden blurred vision in both eyes.
- Difficulty reading or focusing on fine details.
- Vision returns to normal after blood sugar is stabilized (may take a few days to weeks).
2. Diabetic Retinopathy (Most Serious Vision Threat)
This is damage to the retina’s blood vessels caused by prolonged high blood sugar.
Early Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR):
- No symptoms in early stages.
- Later, mild blurred or distorted central vision.
- Difficulty seeing at night or adjusting to dark rooms.
Moderate to Severe NPDR:
- Worsening blurry vision, sometimes with floating spots (floaters).
- Patchy or hazy vision from fluid leaking into the retina.
- Colors may appear faded or less vivid.
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR):
- New, fragile blood vessels form on the retina and may bleed.
- Sudden vision loss from bleeding (vitreous hemorrhage).
- Large floaters or black spots may appear.
- If untreated, can lead to retinal detachment and blindness.