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Diabetes and Blindness Symptoms

In the United States, the number one cause of blindness is diabetic eye disease. Individuals with diabetes that is untreated have a significantly higher risk of going blind than other members of the general population. Diabetic eye disease does not require treatment in individuals with mild cases who control their blood sugar levels tightly and go for regular check-ups. In fact, tight control of blood sugar levels can practically prevent diabetic eye disease. Treatment is required in individuals with advanced cases of diabetic eye disease in order to prevent further damage to the eyes and vision. There are certain symptoms that diabetics should look out for, however, to help determine if diabetic eye disease is occurring.

  1. Blurry Vision

    • If a diabetic begins experiencing blurry vision, this is a sign that diabetic eye disease may be present. It is important to begin controlling blood sugar levels as tight as possible and also make an appointment with an eye doctor to assess whether disease is present.

    Vision Loss

    • An individual suffering from diabetic eye disease may experience sudden vision loss or even sudden blindness in one eye. In this case, it is extremely urgent that the diabetic be seen immediately by an optometrist or ophthalmologist trained in the treatment of diabetic eye disease.

    Rings Around Lights

    • Another symptom that could signal diabetic blindness is seeing rings around lights. This is a common symptom that diabetic eye disease is occurring and could be advancing. This is a sign that blindness could occur, which is why it is so important to make an appointment with the eye doctor to determine the advancement of the eye disease.

    Reading Difficulties

    • Another symptom of diabetic eye disease is difficulty with reading. Any diabetic experiencing reading difficulties should seek the care of an optometrist urgently to determine the extent of the disease and begin managing the diabetes as much as possible.

    Dark Spots

    • Dark spots occurring in one's vision is a sign of diabetic eye disease and should be monitored by an eye doctor. It is important to seek professional care as soon as the dark spots occur in order to limit the progression of the disease.

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