If you have blurred vision and diabetes, uncontrolled high blood sugar may be to blame for your vision problems. The elevated blood sugar level in your blood will cause the lens in your eye to swell and possibly become misshapen, and this is what causes blurred vision. Diabetes and its various symptoms can be kept under control with proper glucose monitoring, but since blurred vision may indicate a more serious eye problem, it is best to see your doctor. It is very important to address blurred vision and diabetes right away, because in more extreme cases, the untreated condition may lead to serious eye disease and possibly blindness.
Diabetes, Blurred Vision, and Other Eye Disorders
While blurred vision may be easily curable by controlling one’s blood sugar level, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to suffer from cataracts, glaucoma, and retinopathy. Diabetics are 60% more likely to have a cataract, which clouds the eye lens and causes blurred vision, and diabetes patients who have had the disease for a long time are three times more likely to develop glaucoma, which is increased pressure in the eye. Glaucoma is the world’s second leading cause of blindness. Almost all those with diabetes will at one point experience blurred vision, which is due to retinopathy, damaged blood vessels in the eye. There may be no loss of vision at first, but over time, if not treated, this could also lead to blindness. The key is to catch problems early.
Blurred Vision, Diabetes, and Preventative Care
An annual dilated eye exam is recommended for people with diabetes and blurred vision. Diabetic women who are pregnant should have the exam also. For those experiencing blurred vision with diabetes, and also as a preventative measure, maintain control over your blood sugar level and blood pressure to prevent eye disease of any kind. A balanced blood sugar level involves regular glucose monitoring and a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and 8 glasses a day of fresh water. Anyone who smokes, especially if they have blurred vision and diabetes, should quit immediately for the sake of their health. There are diabetes-related vitamins made especially for eye health that may be helpful.
For those suffering from blurred vision and diabetes, a healthy diet should also include healthy fats. This means monounsaturated fats such as olive oil, avocados and nuts, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fats such as walnuts, fish, and flaxseed oil. Trans fat (fried foods, snack foods) and saturated fats (red meat, butter) should be avoided. Don’t forget to exercise, as this helps to manage diabetes complications. Blurred vision in diabetes is an early wake-up call, giving you a chance to make important changes in your lifestyle to prevent the situation from worsening and to ensure a long, healthy life.
