How Diabetes Increases Your Risk of Vision Loss

Diabetes has a way of working quietly in the background - subtle shifts in blood sugar, small changes in circulation, tiny stresses on delicate tissues. But in the eyes, those small changes can accumulate into something far more serious. At Eye Care Associates in San Bernardino, Dr. Michael Morton provides comprehensive diabetic eye care designed to catch these issues early, protect long-term vision, and guide patients through every stage of diabetic eye health.

Damage to Tiny Blood Vessels

High blood sugar can weaken the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. When these vessels swell, leak, or become blocked, the retina cannot function as it should. This process is known as diabetic retinopathy, the most common cause of vision loss among people living with diabetes.

Swelling of the Retina

Diabetes can also cause fluid to accumulate in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. When this swelling - called diabetic macular edema - develops, it can lead to blurry or distorted sight that affects everyday activities like reading and driving.

Increased Risk of Cataracts

Another concern is the increased likelihood of developing cataracts at a younger age. Elevated glucose levels can cause the eye’s natural lens to become cloudy, gradually dimming vision and making it harder to see clearly.

Higher Risk of Glaucoma

In addition, diabetes significantly raises the risk of glaucoma. This condition occurs when pressure builds inside the eye and damages the optic nerve. Because glaucoma often develops without early symptoms, many people do not realize anything is wrong until noticeable vision loss occurs.

Why Regular Diabetic Eye Exams Matter

Vision-threatening eye diseases often develop without pain or noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By the time vision changes occur, damage may already be significant - and sometimes irreversible.

That’s why diabetic eye exams in San Bernardino with Dr. Morton are essential. These specialized exams typically include:

• Dilated retinal evaluations to detect early vessel changes

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging to monitor swelling

• Fundus photography for detailed retinal documentation

• Glaucoma screenings to check for nerve damage

Catching issues early allows for timely treatment that can preserve your vision for years to come.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Eyes

Diabetes management is a partnership between your primary care provider and your eye doctor. You can support your long-term vision by:

• Maintaining stable blood sugar levels

• Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol

• Scheduling yearly eye exams - or more frequently as recommended

• Reporting any sudden vision changes immediately

• Wearing UV-protective eyewear

Small habits build strong defenses against long-term complications.

Stay Ahead of Diabetic Eye Disease at Eye Care Associates in San Bernardino

Diabetes may increase your risk of vision loss, but with proactive care, early detection, and consistent monitoring, you can safeguard your sight. Dr. Morton provides thorough diabetic eye exams and personalized care to help protect your vision at every stage of your health journey.

Schedule your next eye exam at Eye Care Associates in San Bernardino to stay ahead of diabetic eye disease. Visit our office in San Bernardino, California, or call (909) 316-2100 to book an appointment today.