Diabetes - Doctor Q&A

Posted by wangjosie

My doctor tell me that diabetes can cause eye disease but do not have time to explain properly what it is so. Would you mind to explain what are the type of eye disease that I should be aware of and their associated symtopms? I am already 48 years and been suffering from diabetes for the last 8 years. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Ranjana Mathur, Singapore National Eye Centre

Diabetic retinopathy results from damage to the tiny blood vessels in the retina which in turn causes leaking blood and other fluids that cause swelling of retinal tissue and clouding of vision. The condition usually affects both eyes. The longer a person has diabetes, the more likely they will develop diabetic retinopathy. When these changes affect the central focusing area of the retina known as “macula” (diabetic maculopathy), it affects the vision markedly. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness. Other eye problems that may be caused by DM are- cataract, fluctuating refractive error, glaucoma, frequent lid infections.

Posted by sek.joshua

My wife is suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure for the last 4 years. Recently, she has been very sensitive to light and with a sense of feeling something inside the eye. This condition has been going on for 2 weeks. It has no pain.
Is it possible that her situation is due to diabetes?
Is it a concern that we should send her to see a doctor immediately?
What are the prevention measure that we should take to reduce her risk of getting eye problem? thx

Answered by Dr. Ranjana Mathur, Singapore National Eye Centre

Symptoms that you have described here could be due to ocular surface problem. Although there is no need for immediate consult, it is recommended that she seek an eye consult to rule out DM retinopathy.

Posted by nelsontan

Dear Doctor I have a few questions on diabetes retinas problems.

1) How can diabetes hurt the retinas of my eyes?
2) What happens as diabetes retina problems get worse?
3) How do I know if I have retina damage from diabetes? and
4) What can I do about diabetes retina problems? Looks forward for your reply.

Answered by Dr. Ranjana Mathur, Singapore National Eye Centre

Diabetic retinopathy results from damage to the tiny blood vessels in the retina which in turn causes leaking blood and other fluids that cause swelling of retinal tissue and clouding of vision. The condition usually affects both eyes.

The longer a person has diabetes, the more likely they will develop diabetic retinopathy. When these changes affect the central focusing area of the retina known as “macula” (diabetic maculopathy), it affects the vision markedly. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness.

You may not have any eye symptoms in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. The only definitive diagnosis can be made by detailed retina check by an Ophthalmologist. Diabetic retinal fundus photography is also successful as a tool to screen diabetic patients. If you are diagnosed to have DM retinopathy then you will be followed up regularly by your Ophthalmologist.

Posted by vincenttan

Over the past few days, i have had blurred vision in my left eye which lasts for most of the day. I wear contact lens, however my left eye looking thru it, is as if i wasn’t wearing my lens at all! I just can't seem to get the left eye to see clearly. I went to a regular GP and he didn't know what it was. Is this type of blurred vision a symptom of diabetes? Please kindly advice.

Answered by Dr. Ranjana Mathur, Singapore National Eye Centre

Blurred vision in a patient who is contact lens wearer can be due to many reasons. If you have diabetes as well then the problem may be due to contact lens fit. Either ways it is recommended that you seek an Ophthalmologist’s consult.

Posted by Dave

My mother suffered from diabetes. I am worried that I will get it too. So, I exercise regularly, eat pasta and brown rice (instead of white) most of the time. I also refrain from too much sweet desserts. Is this enough to ensure I avoid diabetes? What else should I do? thanks

Answered by Dr. Kevin Tan, Singapore General Hospital

Yes you are right, with a family history of diabetes, your risk of getting diabetes is higher and someone else. There is no sure way of preventing diabetes. Lifestyle measures include eating healthily as is what you are doing, exercising regularly and keeping to an ideal body weight. There is also a role of taking medication like metformin, acarbose and rosiglitazone which, on top of lifestyle measures, can also help reduce the risk of getting diabetes. Do speak to your doctor and discuss it more.

Posted by rachel

My father , 70 years old, has diabetes and is on tablet medication. I have heard that diabetics are at risk of heart problems, as well as eye and feet? What should I do to ensure he does not get such problems, and what tests does he need to go for? How often? Is it okay to just go to a GP, or should he see a specialist?

Answered by Dr. Kevin Tan, Singapore General Hospital

Yes, the whole point of diabetes is to control the complications – which happen after a time of poor blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol control. These complications can affect the eyes, feet, heart, nerves in the feet and elsewhere and the kidneys. He should have a regular, at least, annual screening for these complications. He can prevent getting them through good blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol control. Yes, a GP would do fine, if he is managing your father well and according to national guidelines. You may see a specialist if you require another opinion or are unhappy with his management.

Posted by zanne_ooi

Dear Doc,

My mum is a diabetes patient. I am quite worried that I might be having diabetes as well.

Could you tell me what are the symptomps of diabetes ? Do i have to go for regular checkup?

What are my risk of getting diabetes since my mother is already a diabetes patient. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Kevin Tan, Singapore General Hospital

With a family history of diabetes, you ARE at increased risk. The symptoms of diabetes are – feeling thirsty, tired, passing a lot of urine, losing weight, numbness in the fingers or toes, blurred vision. However, MOST persons with diabetes DO NOT have symptoms, so please don’t rely just on them. You should go for a regular blood sugar check and as importantly, prevent diabetes through a healthy diet, keeping to a normal weight and regular exercise.