Can Type 2 diabetes cause blurred vision? It’s one of the symptoms of diabetes - but why does it happen, and should you be concerned about vision loss? In this article, we will put this potentially concerning symptom of Type 2 diabetes under the spotlight while also discussing eye care for people living with Type 2 diabetes.

What Causes Blurred Vision in Type 2 Diabetes?

Blurred vision in Type 2 diabetes is linked to high blood sugar levels. However, there are several reasons why it may occur. Sometimes, it’s a matter of temporary swelling of the lens at the front of the eyes. However, it could also be a symptom of diabetic retinopathy caused by damage to blood vessels at the back of the eye. It is also true that people with Type 2 diabetes are more prone to glaucoma and cataracts. Let’s examine each of these possible reasons for blurred vision individually.

Blurred Vision Due to Hyperglycemia

The most common cause of blurred vision among people with Type 2 diabetes is related to high blood glucose levels or hyperglycemia. When blood sugar levels are too high, tissues within the eyes absorb more fluid causing swelling. Since the way your eyes focus depends on the shape of the eye and the shape of the lens within your eye, the changes caused by swelling affect the sharpness of vision, causing blurring. This should gradually return to normal once your blood glucose levels fall.

If your blood sugar levels are too high for too long, the small blood vessels at the back of the eye can be damaged. When damaged blood vessels leak fluid, swelling also occurs, this can cause blurred vision. Damaged blood vessels can be the first step towards serious diabetes-related eye diseases that can even lead to blindness, which is why it is important to have yearly eye screening so changes can be picked up early and treated to prevent blindness.

Blurred Vision Due to Cataracts

People living with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts than people without Type 2 diabetes. It’s believed that glucose deposits in the lens of the eye could be the cause. The lens of the eye should be clear, but cloudiness in the lenses often develops as we get older, and if you have diabetes, you can develop cataracts at a younger age than most people. As you’d expect, trying to see through clouded lenses leads to blurriness which can progress to blindness, but the good news is that cataracts are usually quite easily treatable with a simple operation.

Blurred Vision Due To Diabetic Retinopathy, Diabetic Macular Oedema, and Glaucoma

When blood vessel damage caused by high blood glucose levels occurs, the retina - the lining at the back of your eyes where light is sensed - can be harmed. This is called diabetic retinopathy. An additional problem can occur when the body tries to heal itself by growing new blood vessels. These vessels are abnormal, weak and may leak blood into the eyeball increasing the pressure inside the eyes or they may cause scar tissue to form.

In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, you may not notice anything at all or only notice slightly blurred vision - if you notice anything at all. Symptoms of more advanced retinopathy include seeing floating spots or streaks because of blood leakage in the eyes. You should get help as soon as possible, even if the symptom clears up on its own and attend yearly eye screening even if you don't have any problems with your vision.

Vision can also be affected by macular oedema. The macula is the part of the retina that helps you see things in details. Diabetic retinopathy can cause swelling of the macula and this leads to blurred vision.

Diabetic retinopathy is also linked to glaucoma, which is increased pressure inside the eye. High pressures inside the eye can affect the retina and cause problems with vision.

Eye Care for People Living With Type 2 Diabetes

Once you’ve been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, eye care becomes more of a priority than it ever was before. You should go for annual eye examinations which may include dilating your pupils so that your retinas can be checked for signs of trouble. However, there are a few other things you can do to limit damage to your vision.

Managing your blood sugar levels well will go a long way towards limiting the development of diabetes-related eye issues. Keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol levels within healthy limits will help a lot too. And, if you already have diabetes-related eye problems, check whether there are activities you should avoid. For example, high-impact or strenuous sports may not be advisable. If you notice vision changes, consult a doctor as soon as possible, even if they seem slight.

Diabetes Can Be Managed: Stay Positive

Now that you know what causes blurred vision in Type 2 diabetes, you may be more worried than ever, but the most important thing to remember is that Type 2 diabetes can be managed. If you’re able to do this well, you can avert eye problems as well as other complications like neuropathy. As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.” All the same, you’ll be concerned about your family’s future, and may be considering life insurance - just in case.

Although you’re feeling positive and are committed to preserving your overall health, you may find that getting life insurance with a pre-existing condition turns into an unpleasant chore. But with Blueberry Life, it’s easy. Want to know more? We specialise in life insurance for people living with chronic conditions - and we won’t make you jump through hoops to get a fair deal. Focus your attention on taking care of your health. We’ll take care of your life cover. Get a quote in minutes for our specialist chronic conditions life insurance.

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Reviewed by Dr. Kingshuk Pal