FAQ Diabetes & Eye

Why are regular eye tests so important?

Most of the complications of diabetic retinopathy that cause vision loss are preventable, provided they are detected early and treated. As you may not realize any problem in your vision initially, it is important that you have periodic checkups with an ophthalmologist.

Would eye checks prevent diabetic retinopathy?

No. The eye checkups do not prevent diabetic retinopathy, but recognize it at an early stage. This helps in preventing the vision threatening complications of diabetic retinopathy.

Can I get back my vision after laser surgery?

No. The aim of laser therapy is to preserve the vision and to prevent further loss of vision. It may not restore your vision once it is decreased.

The power of my glasses keeps changing very frequently. Does it have something to do with diabetes?

Yes. The fluctuations in the blood glucose level in diabetes may lead to changes in the shape of the lens of eye. This changes the refractive power of the eye and manifests as frequently changing prescription of glasses.

What are the warning symptoms to contact my ophthalmologist early, if I have diabetic retinopathy?

The following symptoms would require you to contact your ophthalmologist early, even before your next scheduled appointment:

• • Decrease in vision
• • Sudden onset of red floaters noticed in front of eye
• • Loss of a field of vision

What precautions should I take if I notice blood (red floaters) in my vision?

Do not bend down or do any strenuous activity. Contact your ophthalmologist at the earliest.

Does pregnancy have any effect on diabetic retinopathy?

Yes. The diabetic retinopathy may worsen during pregnancy. Therefore, if you are a diabetic, contact your ophthalmologist before planning your pregnancy. After doing a check up, he or she may advise you to undergo laser treatment before commencing pregnancy. Moreover, during pregnancy, you must visit your ophthalmologist regularly to detect any worsening of the disease.

If someone loses his/her vision due to diabetic retinopathy, what are the other helps available?

Special devices called low vision aids may help those who have very poor vision. These devices may help them to read and to perform their daily activities. Moreover, the ophthalmologist may issue them a certificate of visual disability that entitles them to certain benefits.

Is there any association of cataract with diabetes?

Yes. Diabetes may sometimes lead to sudden development of cataract in young. Moreover the onset of usual cataract is earlier in diabetics than in non-diabetics.

Is there any association of glaucoma with diabetes?

Yes. Diabetics are a higher risk of having glaucoma.

Is there any association between diabetic retinopathy and other complications of diabetes?

Presence of diabetic retinopathy suggests that other complications of diabetes in the body must also be taking place. These complications affect the kidney, heart, brain, peripheral nerves and blood vessels. Your physician treating you for diabetes would do the necessary checkups and advise you regarding the treatment.