Ask An Ophthalmologist: What’s The Link Between Diabetes And Eyesight

Baptist Eye Surgeons • November 14, 2018

diabetic eye diseaseWhile most people understand that diabetes affects blood sugar levels, many are unaware that the disease also impacts eyesight. In fact, diabetic eye disease is a leading cause of blindness in the US.

Diabetic eye disease encompasses a group of eye conditions caused by diabetes, including:

  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Diabetic macular edema (DME)
  • Cataracts
  • Glaucoma

All types and stages of diabetic eye disease have the potential to cause severe vision loss and blindness. Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes and is a leading cause of blindness among working-age adults.

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood glucose levels damage blood vessels of the eyes, specifically those in the retina, which lines the back of the eye and detects light. Permanent vision loss occurs when the blood vessels in the retina become damaged. There are two types of diabetic retinopathy—background diabetic retinopathy, also known as non-proliferative retinopathy, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a consequence of diabetic retinopathy that causes swelling in the part of the retina called the macula. In addition, according to the National Eye Institute adults with diabetes are 2-5 times more likely to develop cataracts and twice as likely to develop glaucoma.

Diagnosis & Treatment

There are no symptoms of diabetic eye disease until vision loss occurs, which is why people with diabetes should get a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. A comprehensive eye exam allows the ophthalmologist to check the retina for changes in the blood vessels, changes in the lens, swelling of the macula, and damage to nerve tissue.

Early detection, timely treatment, and appropriate follow-up care of diabetic eye disease can protect against vision loss. Controlling diabetes by taking medications as prescribed, exercising, and eating a healthy diet can prevent or delay vision loss.

If caught before vision is damaged, diabetic eye disease can be treated with laser therapy. Unfortunately, once you have lost some or all of your vision, it is very hard to get it back.

Baptist Eye Surgeons is an ophthalmological practice in Knoxville, TN, and Morristown, TN, dedicated to providing quality eye care to patients whose needs range from routine comprehensive eye examinations to treatment for vision loss from diabetic eye disease. To meet our doctors and learn more about our specialities, visit our website or give us a call at 865-579-3920 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Night Vision Problems: Causes and When to See an Eye Doctor

June 30, 2026
Night vision problems can make everyday activities like driving at dusk, walking in poorly lit places, or adjusting to indoor lighting harder and sometimes unsafe. Trouble seeing in low light, called nyctalopia, is not a disease itself but a sign that something else may be affecting your eyes. Learning what causes night vision problems and when to get help is important for keeping your vision healthy. What Are Night Vision Problems? Night vision problems mean it is hard to see clearly in low light or darkness. Some people notice their eyes take longer to adjust when going from bright to dim places. Others may have trouble with glare from headlights, seeing less contrast, or things just looking dimmer at night. Mild changes in night vision can happen as you get older, but if your symptoms keep getting worse or do not go away, you should pay attention to them. Common Causes of Night Vision Difficulties There are several potential causes of night vision problems. Night vision problems can have many causes, from getting older to certain eye conditions, such as lens problems, leading to blurred vision and increased sensitivity to glare. They are one of the most common causes of poor night vision, especially in older adults. 1. Cataracts Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurred vision and increased sensitivity to glare. They are one of the most common causes of poor night vision, especially in older adults. 2. Vitamin A Deficiency Vitamin A is important for keeping your retina healthy. If you do not get enough vitamin A, your eyes may have trouble adjusting to darkness, which can lead to night blindness. 3. Glaucoma Some types of glaucoma can affect your side vision and make it harder to see differences between light and dark. As the optic nerve gets damaged, seeing in low light can become more difficult. 4. Retinitis Pigmentosa This inherited eye condition slowly affects your ability to see at night and to the sides. Early signs often include trouble seeing in the dark. 5. Diabetes-Related Eye Disease Diabetic retinopathy can harm the blood vessels in your retina, which may cause blurry vision and make it harder to see at night. 6. Aging and Pupil Changes As people get older, their pupils do not react to light changes as quickly, and the retina becomes less sensitive. This naturally makes night vision worse over time. Symptoms to Watch For Night vision problems often develop slowly. Some common signs are: Difficulty seeing in low light or darkness Trouble driving at night due to glare from headlights Longer adjustment time when moving between light and dark environments Reduced contrast or clarity in dim settings Frequent squinting or eye strain in low light If these symptoms start to affect your daily life, it is a good idea to get a full eye check-up. When to See an Eye Doctor You should see an eye doctor if you notice new night vision problems, if they are getting worse, or if you have other changes in your vision. The doctor can run tests to find out what is causing the problem and suggest the right treatment. A full eye exam might include checking your retina, testing your field of vision, and taking images to look at your eye health. Finding problems early is very important for conditions like glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and retinal disorders, because early treatment can help protect your vision. Protecting Your Night Vision Not all causes of night vision loss can be prevented, but taking care of your eyes can lower your risk and help you see better. Some helpful steps are: Scheduling regular eye exams Handling chronic health conditions like diabetes Eating a diet rich in vitamin A and antioxidants Wearing proper corrective lenses if prescribed Avoiding driving with untreated vision changes Prioritizing Your Eye Health Night vision problems can be an early sign of eye disease. Since many eye problems develop slowly, having regular eye exams is one of the best ways to catch changes early and keep your vision healthy for the long term. If you have trouble seeing at night or notice any changes in your vision, making an appointment for an eye exam can help keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear in all types of light.
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