Diabetes could lead to various sight problems or even lead to permanent blindness, warned Dr Madhav Rao, consultant ophthalmologist / vitreo-retinal surgeon at Abu Dhabi’s tertiary healthcare provider, Burjeel Hospital.

Diabetes, a condition that affects more than 745,940 people in the UAE according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), not only affects blood sugar levels but also important organs: notably the retina, kidneys, heart and nerve tissues.

One of the biggest effects of diabetes is on the eyes causing mild visual loss to severe visual loss or even blindness. Diabetes can affect the human lens causing premature cataract or clouding of the eyes or causes an increase in fluid pressure inside the eye or glaucoma.

Rao added: “Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the narrow blood vessels called capillaries in the retina of the eye causing leakage of fluid, blood, proteins into the retinal layers resulting in retinal swelling or an edema. If the edema occurs in the centre of the retina, vision might be affected.

“The second most important change caused by diabetic retinopathy is the formation of abnormal new blood vessels on the surface of the retina and these grow towards the centre of the eye.”

He added: “These large new blood vessels are fragile and can be raptured easily on physical exertion causing bleeding into the vitreous cavity (fluid in the middle of the eye) or can pull the retina separating from the outer walls.”

Eye disease caused by diabetes is particularly dangerous because it does not display any symptoms in the early stages. Over time, patients will suffer from blurring of vision, distortion of images, blockage in the central vision, and sudden appearance of a cloud in the field of vision.

He said: “Once diabetic retinopathy has progressed to the later stages, the patient will have to undergo a recommended laser surgery that shrinks the abnormally formed blood vessels. This surgery is most effective when the vessels are newly formed and haven’t started bleeding. It can be done even if the vessels have started bleeding but this can have complications.”

Prevention damage to your eyes is the best way forward once you have been diagnosed with diabetes. Control of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol along with a suitable diet and regular exercise will keep these alarming conditions away.

Clancey Po, CEO, Burjeel Hospital, said: “It is unfortunate that the UAE despite being one of the fastest growing countries in the world has also the distinction of having the highest number of diabetics. The sedentary lifestyle we lead is the main cause of the increase in Diabetes. It is only with awareness that we can control the incidence of diabetes and its health complications. With the growing number of people affected with Diabetes, it is necessary for tertiary medical providers to be involved in creating awareness and proactive management of these health conditions.  With world-class medical expertise and state-of-the-art technology, Burjeel Hospital is committed to provide only the best healthcare experience in the UAE and in the region.”  - TradeArabia News Service