Since November is Diabetes Awareness Month, it’s a good time to explore the various ways that diabetes can impact your eye health. One area of concern is the potential link between diabetes and glaucoma, two conditions that can profoundly affect your vision and overall quality of life. Research has revealed patterns suggesting that diabetes may increase the risk of developing glaucoma and complicate existing cases of it.*

Understanding Glaucoma and Its Impact

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions where optic nerve damage often results from increased pressure within the eye, though susceptibility varies by individual.

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma in Western countries. This type is gradual, often progressing for years without obvious symptoms, and can lead to visual field loss and eventual blindness if not treated.

More than 80 million people globally, including 3 million in the U.S., live with glaucoma, often without being aware of it, so regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management.

Diabetes as a Potential Glaucoma Risk Factor

Multiple study results indicate that:

• People with diabetes are about twice as likely to develop glaucoma, particularly POAG.
• Diabetes-related blood vessel damage and oxidative stress can harm the optic nerve, potentially raising glaucoma risk. 
• Longer diabetes duration appears to strengthen glaucoma risk, with a 48% increased likelihood of developing POAG over two decades.

Managing Eye Health for Patients With Diabetes

Diabetic retinopathy, neovascular glaucoma, and cataracts are well-documented diabetes-related eye health complications due to blood vessel and retinal damage. Vision fluctuations can also occur with changing blood sugar levels.

Preventive measures can include:

• Regular eye exams, especially for diabetics, to catch potential issues early, and
• Consistent blood sugar control, to help mitigate the risk of eye complications. 

For people living with glaucoma, medications and surgical options like laser therapy are available to manage intraocular pressure and slow progression.

*Glaucoma Research Foundation. (2023, November 2). The Relationship Between Diabetes and Glaucoma. https://glaucoma.org/articles/the-relationship-between-diabetes-and-glaucoma 

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