Diabetes frequently affects the eyes. This reality is underscored by leading ophthalmology expert Dr. Tatyana Shilova, founder of the Shilova Ophthalmology Laser Correction Clinic, who emphasizes the high prevalence of eye issues among people living with diabetes. Her observations come from years of clinical experience, where she has seen firsthand how insulin-related health changes can ripple through visual health and patient outcomes.
Diabetes Mellitus often alters vision in a large majority of patients. The condition can trigger hormonal imbalances in critical organs such as the thyroid and pancreas, which interferes with how the body uses and stores glucose. When glucose is not properly managed, it accumulates in the bloodstream and disrupts normal functioning across multiple organ systems. According to Dr. Shilova, decreased vision is among the most common early symptoms experienced by those with diabetes, signaling the need for timely eye evaluation and ongoing monitoring.
Persistent high blood sugar gradually damages tiny blood vessels within the eye. This vascular injury is a leading contributor to diabetic retinopathy, a serious complication that targets the retina and threatens long-term visual health. The progression can be subtle at first but may advance to significant impairment if not detected and treated promptly. Dr. Shilova notes that retinopathy remains a central concern for patients with diabetes, underscoring the importance of regular eye exams and early intervention.
Beyond retinopathy, diabetes raises the risk of other eye conditions that can compromise vision. Glaucoma, a disease that damages the optic nerve, can cause rapid declines in visual sharpness and, in some cases, irreversible blindness if not addressed. Cataracts, more common as people age, can also arise in individuals with diabetes, contributing to cloudy vision and the need for surgical correction. Dr. Shilova highlights these potential complications as reminders that diabetes requires comprehensive eye care as part of overall disease management.
Common ocular complications include bleeding within or around the retina, and bleeding inside the eye itself. Such bleeding can produce a reddish appearance, blur motion, and raise the risk of losing sight if left unchecked. Early recognition of symptoms and proactive medical care play crucial roles in preserving vision for people with diabetes.
In terms of treatment, procedures such as vitrectomy and laser coagulation are employed to address diabetic retinopathy and other retinal pathologies. Vitrectomy removes the vitreous gel that can accumulate blood and scar tissue, while laser therapy helps seal leaking vessels and stabilize the retina. These interventions, when applied promptly, contribute to stabilizing or improving vision and reducing the risk of further deterioration. Dr. Shilova emphasizes that a tailored treatment plan, grounded in close monitoring and patient education, is essential for optimizing outcomes in diabetic eye disease.
In addition to its impact on eye health, diabetes can influence oral health as well. Clinicians observe that fluctuations in blood sugar levels may affect oral tissues, increasing susceptibility to gum disease, infection, and slower healing after dental procedures. This holistic view of diabetes care reinforces the need for integrated health management, combining regular dental checkups with ophthalmic evaluations and metabolic control. Ongoing education and proactive management are key to reducing the overall burden of diabetes on the body and preserving quality of life.