Diabetes impacts different parts of the body. However, diabetes doesn’t just influence blood sugar levels; it can also lead to various eye issues, including double vision caused by damage to the cranial nerves and eye muscle paralysis.
Double vision can be a symptom of other eye diseases as well. For this reason, undergoing an eye exam can help determine the underlying causes of any vision problems, so that you receive prompt and personalized vision care.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are high, the hormone insulin is released, signaling cells in the body to use this sugar for energy.
However, when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, or when the body can’t effectively use the insulin it makes, high blood sugar and diabetes can result. Management of diabetes is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing complications such as eye problems.
Diabetes and the Eyes
Diabetes can significantly impact the eyes, and may lead to various vision problems. High blood sugar levels can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes, affecting nerve function and the eye muscles.
Diabetes can also directly affect the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye), leading to diabetic eye disease or diabetic retinopathy. Many people may not notice slight vision changes, especially without early signs or symptoms of diabetic retinopathy, making eye exams vital for timely diagnosis and treatment.
How Diabetes Can Lead to Double Vision
Symptoms of diabetic eye diseases can include blurry vision, fluctuating vision, dark areas, and spots in your vision. Diabetes can also cause double vision in several ways.
Neurological Causes
Diabetes can cause damage to the cranial nerves that connect the brain to the eye muscles that control eye movement. When these nerves are affected, misalignment of the eyes may result, leading to double vision. This neurological issue is one of the primary ways diabetes can cause double vision.
Ophthalmological Causes
Damage to the blood vessels can lead to eye muscle paralysis or paralysis of the muscles in the eyes that move the eyes. Problems with the eye muscles can result in the eyes not working properly, which may cause the brain to receive two images rather than one, leading to double vision.
Double vision from eye muscle paralysis can last a few days to weeks. Blood sugar management can help resolve double vision and other symptoms of diabetic eye disease.
The Importance of Early Detection & Management
Catching diabetes-related eye issues in the early stages can prevent further damage to your vision. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can prevent the progression of eye diseases and protect your vision from worsening. Regular eye exams are essential for spotting these issues before they can become severe and lead to vision loss.
Tips for Managing Diabetic Eye Disease
Keeping your blood sugar levels stable is crucial for managing diabetes-related complications. Also, monitoring and adhering to your prescribed medication can help prevent the sudden spikes or drops in blood sugar that can impact your vision.
Scheduling annual eye exams can help detect any changes in your vision early. Make it a habit to visit your eye doctor, even if you think your vision is fine. The recommended eye exam frequency for adults by the American Optometric Association is:
- 18 to 39 years: An eye exam at least every 2 years or annually if at-risk.
- 40 to 64 years: An eye exam at least every 2 years or annually if at-risk.
- 65 and older: An annual eye exam or as recommended.
If you have diabetes, you should have a yearly diabetic eye exam.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in managing diabetes and preventing eye issues. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, blood pressure management, and avoiding smoking. These lifestyle choices can help to maintain overall health and significantly impact your vision.
Treatment Options for Diabetes & Double Vision
There are several treatment options available for managing double vision caused by diabetes. These options may include corrective lenses and, in some cases, medication, laser treatments, and surgery. Your eye doctor will recommend a course of action based on your condition.
Regular eye check-ups are not just for detecting issues early; they’re also essential for monitoring the effectiveness of treatments. Consistent follow-ups with your eye doctor allow for adjustments in your treatment plan.
Protect Your Vision from Diabetes
With diabetes, the health of your eyes is as important as any other part of your body. Early detection of eye problems and proper management can preserve your vision and quality of life.
If you haven’t had an eye exam in the past year or are experiencing vision symptoms such as blurry or double vision, don’t wait—schedule an eye exam at Total Vision La Mesa today.
