High Myopia and Diabetes: Risks of Retinal Complications Explained

High myopia and diabetes?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if having high myopia (900) along with type 1 hereditary diabetes increases the likelihood of developing retinal diseases in the future, such as macular degeneration and glaucoma.
Additionally, if diabetes is well-controlled, does this reduce the risk of retinal disease, or will it still gradually deteriorate over time? If well-controlled, should it not occur at all? Thank you for your help!

Gaozhong sheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/28

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, type 1 hereditary diabetes has a high probability of developing diabetic retinopathy after a long period.
It is recommended that you have regular check-ups.
Additionally, high myopia is also a risk factor for macular degeneration and glaucoma, so it is equally important for you to have regular examinations.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of Ophthalmology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/10/28

More Info

High myopia, defined as a refractive error greater than -6.00 diopters, significantly increases the risk of various ocular complications, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. When combined with type 1 hereditary diabetes, the risk of developing retinal complications, particularly diabetic retinopathy, is further heightened. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision loss among individuals with diabetes, and its prevalence increases with the duration of the disease and poor glycemic control.

In your case, having a high myopia of -9.00 diopters alongside type 1 diabetes does indeed elevate your risk for retinal complications. The mechanisms behind this increased risk are multifactorial. High myopia can lead to structural changes in the eye, such as elongation of the eyeball and thinning of the retina, making it more susceptible to damage. On the other hand, diabetes can cause changes in the blood vessels of the retina, leading to leakage, bleeding, and the formation of new, abnormal blood vessels, which can further compromise retinal health.

Regarding the management of diabetes, maintaining good glycemic control is crucial. Studies have shown that effective management of blood sugar levels can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. The American Diabetes Association recommends regular monitoring of hemoglobin A1c levels, with a target of less than 7% for most adults, to minimize the risk of complications. If your diabetes is well-controlled, the likelihood of developing diabetic retinopathy may decrease, but it does not eliminate the risk entirely. Over time, even with good control, some individuals may still experience progression of retinal changes due to the cumulative effects of diabetes.

It is also important to note that while controlling blood sugar levels can help reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy, it does not directly address the risks associated with high myopia. Therefore, regular eye examinations are essential for early detection and management of any potential complications. These examinations should include a comprehensive dilated eye exam to assess the health of the retina and monitor for any signs of diabetic retinopathy or other complications related to high myopia.

In summary, both high myopia and type 1 diabetes independently increase the risk of retinal complications. While good control of diabetes can help mitigate some risks, it does not completely prevent the potential for retinal changes associated with high myopia. Regular eye care and monitoring are vital to ensure timely intervention if any complications arise. It is advisable to maintain open communication with your ophthalmologist and endocrinologist to develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses both your myopia and diabetes management.

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