Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of vision problems caused by diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, people living with diabetes face a higher risk of developing serious eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. However, recent studies show that awareness of these risks remains low, particularly among populations at greater risk for diabetes. With many Americans potentially unaware of how to protect their sight, the American Academy of Ophthalmology urges everyone with diabetes to take proactive steps to safeguard their vision.
WashU Medicine Ophthalmologist and retina disease specialist Cecilia S. Lee, MD, MS, says early detection and regular eye exams are essential for people with diabetes because vision loss can go undetected.
The retina often shows the earliest signs of vascular stress, sometimes even before symptoms appear elsewhere in the body. Detecting these subtle changes early allows us to intervene before permanent vision loss occurs — and it also provides valuable insight into a person’s overall microvascular health.
Lee explains that a proactive, team-based approach is necessary because caring for people with diabetes goes far beyond the eyes. “Patient’s eye health can often tell what’s happening in the rest of the body,” she said. “I work closely with their endocrinologists and primary care doctors to connect those pieces — making sure what I see in the eye helps guide their overall health and wellbeing.”
Take Steps to Protect Your Eyes from Diabetes
The best way to prevent diabetes-related eye damage is to keep your blood sugar under control, as stated by AAO. Follow your primary care physician’s guidance on diet and exercise, and schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist if you haven’t already. Be sure to keep all recommended follow-up visits to safeguard your vision.
More information about WashU Medicine expert retina doctors in the St. Louis area.