Hidden Warning Signs of Diabetes That Affect Your EYES
It might sound like nothing to worry about – and usually, it isn’t. But the redness around your eyes could be a sign of something much more sinister. Opticians warn that it can be a hidden sign of type 2 diabetes. And, by the time it plays havoc on your eyesight, it might already be advanced.
Kyla Black, of Boots Opticians, said: ‘Eye tests check your vision and whether you need glasses. ‘But they also play a vital role in checking for potentially serious health conditions such as diabetes.’
Speaking out as part of Diabetes Awareness Week, she listed five symptoms you should be alert for. Ms Black, who has worked as an optometrist for over 25 years, included gradually worsening vision or sudden vision loss to the list.
Shapes floating in your field of vision (floaters), blurred or patchy vision, and eye pain or redness were her other three warning signs. Issues affecting the eyes are caused by diabetic retinopathy, a complication of the condition itself.
Without treatment, it can lead to blindness. But it can take years to get to this stage, the NHS says. It is caused by high blood sugar levels damaging blood vessels that feed the back of the eye, the retina.
Ms Black said: ‘It may not show any obvious symptoms until the condition is more advanced. These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have diabetes, but it’s important to get them checked out.’
