Early detection, blood sugar control key to saving vision: Dr Aulakh

Blindness is rising rapidly across the world due to diabetes mellitus, a lifestyle disease that has now become a global epidemic. One of the most dangerous and lesser-known complications of diabetes is Diabetic Retinopathy — a condition that gradually damages the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, leading to partial or complete loss of vision.

Explaining the seriousness of the issue, Dr Prabhjinder Aulakh, leading ophthalmologist at Bariana Eye Hospital, Hoshiarpur, said, “Diabetes does not only affect your blood sugar — it affects every part of your body, including your eyes. In fact, many diabetic patients lose their eyesight silently because they ignore regular eye check-ups.”

According to Dr Aulakh, diabetic patients are at higher risk of developing not just diabetic retinopathy, but also cataracts and glaucoma. The damage is primarily caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels, which weaken and leak the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Over time, this can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even retinal detachment — a medical emergency that may cause permanent blindness if not treated promptly.

She explained that high blood sugar levels are the main cause of damage to retinal blood vessels over time. The longer a person has diabetes, the greater the risk of developing complications. In addition, high blood pressure increases the strain on fragile eye vessels, compounding the risk. Pregnancy, she noted, may also worsen diabetic retinopathy in some women.

In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy often shows no symptoms, which makes regular eye examinations extremely important for all diabetic patients. As the disease progresses, symptoms such as blurred vision, dark or empty areas in sight, difficulty distinguishing colours, and night blindness may begin to appear.

She said, “The best treatment is early detection. Every diabetic patient should get their eyes examined at least once a year, even if their vision seems normal.” She added that maintaining strict control over blood sugar and blood pressure is the most effective way to prevent or slow the progression of the disease. Treatment options vary depending on the stage of retinopathy and may include laser surgery to seal leaking vessels, injections of anti-VEGF medications to reduce swelling, or vitrectomy surgery to remove blood or scar tissue from the eye.

Highlighting the emotional and social impact, Dr Aulakh said, “Losing vision can deeply affect a person’s confidence and independence. But with awareness, timely care and regular check-ups, most diabetic patients can preserve their sight for life.”

She urged diabetics not to wait for symptoms to appear. Regular screening and disciplined diabetes management remain the key weapons against this silent but preventable cause of blindness.