Complications of Diabetes Mellitus: Eye Complications

Patients with diabetes are at increased risk for glaucoma, cataracts, and, if the disease is not well controlled, blindness.

Changes in the retina pose a major long-term threat to vision. This is due to damage to the blood vessels and nerves of the eye, which is primarily caused by poor control of blood sugar. Improved control of blood sugar has been shown to reduce the risk of eye damage in many studies. Blood pressure control is also important; it reduces the risk of eye damage.

Risk Factors

• Poor blood sugar control
• Hypertension
• Longer duration of diabetes
• Smoking

Diagnosis

Eye damage can be diagnosed during a routine ophthalmologic examination.

Treatment

• The best approach is prevention by use of appropriate diet, exercise, and medications to control blood sugar and blood pressure .
  
• In some advanced cases, laser surgery may be used.
  

Nutritional Considerations

Nutritional interventions that improve blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels may help prevent or slow eye damage. A specific diet therapy to prevent eye damage has not yet been established. However, evidence from the Diabetes Complications and Control Trial suggested that diets high in fat and low in fiber may increase the risk for eye damage.