In an acute blood sugar rise the patient can become much more near-sighted overnight. I have seen patients go from 20/20 to 20/200 in one day. These episodes usually resolve in a few weeks when the blood sugar is stabilized with medication or insulin shots prescribed by the family doctor.

A more permanent problem occurs with long term blood sugar control problems…it is called retinopathy, or bleeding in the tiny vessels in the back of the eyes. It is therefore important if you’re diabetic or even pre-diabetic to have your eyes dilated and checked every year. Early detection can allow your eye doctor to counsel you regarding your eyes and sometimes refer you to a retinal specialist for preventive treatment. Of course, the best way to care for your eyes when you have diabetes is to control your diabetes. Taking your medication or insulin shots regularly and faithfully will pay big dividends in the long run.

Scott D. Peterson, OD