Overview
Unexpected sight loss is more common than you may think. Blindness often happens without prior warning signs and in people unaware they are at risk.
The two most common culprits of unexpected sight loss are Diabetes and glaucoma. These diseases are known as the "sneak thieves of sight" because symptoms may not occur in the early stages. By the time a person realizes something is wrong, irreversible vision loss often occurs.
In fact, diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of blindness in adults. An average of 55 Americans go blind from the disease each day. The numbers threaten to rise sharply as Diabetes becomes increasingly common due to poor eating habits, infrequent exercise and an aging population. One in three children born in the United States five years ago are expected to become diabetic during their lives.
Key Information
Diabetes causes partial or complete loss of vision in as many as 70 percent of those who have it. Yet 30 percent of all people who have Diabetes don't even know they have it. Even people who know they have Diabetes downplay the risks they face.
According to a survey of diabetics sponsored by Lions Clubs International, 60 percent were not worried about going blind or losing a limb. In reality, 74 percent of diabetics will develop serious complications that could lead to loss of sight or a limb or kidney failure.
Glaucoma, on the other hand, is a group of eye diseases that slowly damage the fine nerves that connect the eye to the brain. For most people, this damage occurs when pressure in the eye is too high. When these nerves are damaged, vision loss may result.
What You Need to Know
Glaucoma is the second-leading cause of blindness in the United States. But like Diabetes, not enough people know about it: An estimated 4.2 million Americans have glaucoma but half are not aware of it.
Diabetes and glaucoma are especially prevalent among blacks and Hispanics. These groups are believed to have a genetic predisposition to the diseases and are much more at risk than Caucasians. Others particularly at risk for glaucoma are people over 60, those with a family history of glaucoma, diabetics and the very near-sighted.
The good news for those at risk is that a dilated eye exam can detect the two diseases and early treatment can prevent vision loss. Vision experts urge at-risk people to have regular eye exams.
Raising awareness of diabetic eye disease and glaucoma is key to preventing unnecessary blindness. Lions Clubs International works with Lions clubs, community groups and individuals to publicize the need for early detection and timely treatment of the two diseases. The Lions Eye Health Program provides materials for distribution at health fairs, senior citizen centers and similar gatherings. It also offers strategies for raising awareness of the eye diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is diabetes and how is it managed?
Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot regulate blood sugar properly. Management involves a combination of medication, healthy eating, regular physical activity, and blood sugar monitoring. Type 1 requires insulin therapy, while Type 2 can often be managed with lifestyle changes plus oral medications or insulin.
❓ Can lifestyle changes reverse Type 2 diabetes?
For many people, significant weight loss, a low-carbohydrate diet, and regular exercise can put Type 2 diabetes into remission - meaning blood sugar returns to normal without medication. This is not a cure, but sustained lifestyle change can dramatically improve outcomes and delay complications.
❓ What foods should people with diabetes limit?
People with diabetes benefit from limiting refined sugars, white bread, sugary drinks, processed foods, and high-glycaemic-index carbohydrates. Focus instead on non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats. Portion control and consistent meal timing are equally important.
❓ How often should blood sugar be checked?
Frequency depends on type and treatment. Those on insulin may check 4-10 times daily. Those managing with diet or oral medication might check once or twice daily, or less. A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) provides real-time data without finger-prick testing. Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance.
❓ When should someone see a doctor about diabetes?
See a doctor if you experience unexplained thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, or persistent fatigue. Those already diagnosed should have check-ups every 3-6 months for HbA1c, blood pressure, kidney function, eye exams, and foot checks.