Diabetes eye complications can lead to blindness

Prolonged high blood sugar can cause diabetic retinopathy, a condition that damages the retina and can lead to permanent blindness. According to the National Hospital of Endocrinology, elevated glucose levels damage small blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak fluid or blood. As the disease progresses, areas of the retina may lack blood supply, triggering the growth of abnormal, fragile new blood vessels that are prone to rupturing.

Diabetic retinopathy often progresses silently in its early stages, with patients experiencing no obvious symptoms despite existing damage. As the condition worsens, symptoms may include blurred vision, dark spots, floaters, distorted images, or loss of parts of the visual field. Severe cases can result in vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment.

Risk factors include the duration of diabetes, poor blood sugar control, hypertension, and lipid disorders. Medical experts recommend regular eye examinations even in the absence of symptoms, alongside strict management of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels to mitigate risks.