World Diabetes Day 2024: Do you have itchy eyes? Experts warn high blood sugar levels can lead to dry eye syndrome
As World Diabetes Day highlights the importance of managing diabetes, it¡¯s equally essential to focus on the link between diabetes and its side effects on the eyes before it's too late! Know what is what is dry eye syndrome and how it is linked to diabetes
Diabetes is a leading cause of death across the world, affecting over 21.2 crore people in India in 2022. The condition can affect many parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, eyes, feet, and legs. As World Diabetes Day highlights the importance of managing diabetes, it¡¯s equally essential to focus on the link between diabetes and its side effects on the eyes before it's too late!
According to the American Diabetes Association, one of the rarely talked about problems linked with diabetes is dry eye condition. Studies have found that around 54 per cent of people living with diabetes have dry eyes.
Dry eyes may not sound like a big deal when compared to other types of diabetes-related eye diseases such as glaucoma or retinopathy, but it is imperative to treat dry eyes as a serious health problem because if it is left untreated, it can damage the vision or lead to vision loss. Some of the symptoms of dry eyes include dryness in the eyes and stinging or sensitive eyes.
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On World Diabetes Day, let¡¯s address the issue and raise awareness about the link between dry eyes and diabetes and how to tackle it.
What is dry eye syndrome?
Healthy eyes are wet eyes, as normal human eyes constantly produce tears from the ducts in the front cornea of the eyes. These tears are made of water, mucus, and oil. Moreover, tears are responsible for coating the eyes so you can see clearly. While dry eyes or dry eye syndrome is exactly what it sounds like¡ªa lack of fluid.
How is dry eye linked to diabetes?
Diabetes affects how the body manages blood sugar levels, and over time, high blood sugar can damage various bodily functions, including tear production.
Dr. Anjal Shah, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Cataract and Refractive Surgeon, Dr. Sachdev Maxivision Eye Hospital, Surat, says, ¡°Diabetes can indeed lead to dry eyes. This condition, known as diabetic dry eye syndrome, occurs due to neuropathy or nerve damage that affects the lacrimal gland, responsible for tear secretion.¡±
¡°Reduced tear production results in dry, irritated, and uncomfortable eyes, as the moisture needed for lubrication is insufficient,¡± he adds.
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Risk factors of diabetes and dry eyes
Several risk factors make people with diabetes more prone to dry eyes. ¡°These include poor blood sugar control, which exacerbates nerve damage, and long-term diabetes duration, which increases the likelihood of developing complications,¡± lists Dr. Shah.
Other risk factors include high blood pressure, poor diet, smoking, and wearing contact lenses, all of which can worsen eye dryness.
Tips to take care of eyes with diabetes
Managing blood sugar levels, regular eye check-ups, and using prescribed lubricating eye drops can help mitigate the impact of diabetic dry eye syndrome, improving comfort and protecting vision over time.
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According to Dr. Aditi Sharma, consultant ophthalmologist at Akhand Eye Jyoti Hospital, ¡°Early detection is key. It is imperative to go for regular eye check-ups if you have diabetes.¡± Here are some ways to take care of eyes with diabetes:
Regular Eye Exams: Schedule yearly eye exams to catch diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions early. Your doctor can monitor any changes in your eye health and recommend treatments before issues worsen.
Control Blood Sugar: Keep your blood sugar levels in the target range set by your doctor. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision issues and diabetic retinopathy.
Monitor Blood Pressure: High blood pressure adds stress to your eye¡¯s blood vessels, increasing the risk of eye complications. Aim to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range to support overall eye health.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking can worsen diabetes-related eye damage. It raises blood pressure and restricts blood flow, which can exacerbate conditions like glaucoma and cataracts. Quitting smoking can help reduce these risks.
Eat a balanced diet: Include leafy greens, fish, and fruits rich in antioxidants to nourish your eyes. A diet rich in vitamins C and E, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc supports healthy vision.
Protect Eyes from UV Rays: Wear sunglasses with UV protection outdoors to shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, which can accelerate diabetic eye complications like cataracts.
Now, if you notice a symptom like bugging or itchy eyes, please visit an ophthalmologist, as it can be a symptom of diabetes.
Also Read: PCOS & Diabetes: Does hormonal imbalance also spike blood sugar levels? Experts draw link
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Sneha is a dedicated writer with a passion for storytelling that enthrals and inspires the readers. With a background in Health and Wellness, she brings a unique perspective to every narrative. As a journalist, she aims to find solutions with authenticity and credibility.
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