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Quiz: How Much do You Know About Diabetic Eye Diseases?

In the U.S., nearly 30 million people have diabetes, leaving them at risk of developing eye disorders that could result in preventable vision loss. Each year the American Diabetes Association (ADA) observes “Diabetes Alert Day”’ on the fourth Tuesday in March. Diabetes Alert Day was established to raise awareness of the importance of understanding the risks and seriousness of the diseases. In honor of this important day, Palmetto Retina Center is highlighting public education with a quiz to evaluate your knowledge of severe eye disorders linked with diabetes.

Question #1. Which eye disorders are linked with diabetes?

A. Diabetic retinopathy
B. Cataracts
C. Glaucoma
D. All of the above

• Answer

  D. People with diabetes are prone to getting all three disorders, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, each of these disorders could lead to vision loss, which is why it's essential to have regular, comprehensive eye exams.

Question #2. True or false: The leading cause of blindness in adults in the U.S. is diabetic retinopathy.

• Answer

  True. In the U.S., diabetic retinopathy is the number cause of blindness in adults aged 20 to 74, affecting over 5.3 million Americans aged 18 and older.

Question #3. How does diabetic retinopathy occur?

A. High blood sugar levels damage the retina’s blood vessels
B. Fluctuating blood sugar levels cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy
C. Low blood sugar damages the retina of the eye
D. Side effects of medication given to treat high blood sugar damage the eye’s retina

• Answer

  A. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when blood vessels in the retina (i.e., the light-sensing area of the eye) are damaged by high blood sugar levels. In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms; this is why preventative measures, such as regular eye exams, are essential.

Question #4. What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?

A. Dark spots in the visual field
B. Blurry vision
C. Poor night vision or loss of vision
D. All of the above

• Answer

  D. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy may include an increase in floaters (i.e., dots or lines appearing to float across the front of the eye), visual changes, dark spots in the visual field, loss of color contrast, and poor night vision. Some people experience a complete loss of vision.

Question #5. How often should a dilated eye exam be performed for people with diabetes?

A. A person who has diabetes shouldn't need to have their eyes checked unless they need new prescriptions.
B. A person who has diabetes should get their eyes checked when they are having symptoms.
C. A person who has diabetes should have an eye exam at least every year.
D. A person who has diabetes should have an exam whenever it’s convenient.

• Answer

  C. It's important for people with diabetes to get a comprehensive eye exam at least every year because changes can occur without any noticeable symptoms. Those considered at high risk of getting diabetic eye disorders may require more frequent exams.

Question #6. True or False: Diabetic macular edema (DME) adversely impacts the center part of the retina, called the macula.

• Answer

  True. DME may occur as a complication of diabetic retinopathy; it involves blocked retinal blood vessels and can happen during any stage of diabetic retinopathy.

Question #7. Which condition/s cause an increased risk of developing DME?

A. Stroke
B. Hypertension (high blood pressure)
C. High cholesterol level
D. Both B. and C.

• Answer

  D. People with diabetes who also have high cholesterol and high blood pressure have an increased risk of developing DME. Unmanaged, poorly controlled blood sugar levels and having a family history of the disorder may also pose an increased risk for the disorder.

Question #8. What are the symptoms of untreated DME?

A. Fluid build-up
B. Blurry, distorted vision
C. Total loss of vision
D. All of the above

• Answer

  D. Symptoms of DME include an accumulation of fluid in the macula (i.e., the center of the retina), the swelling which results in blurry vision and visual distortions; objects may appear as different sizes when a person looks out of one eye.

Get Diabetic Eye Care in South Carolina

While diabetes can cause severe eye disorders, seeking early intervention by getting regular dilated eye exams can prevent serious complications, including vision loss. Schedule an appointment with a retinal specialist by contacting Palmetto Retina Center.