Ms. Ly developed gestational diabetes 10 years ago. After giving birth, she felt her health was stable and did not seek further medical check-ups. Recently, her vision became blurred. She initially attributed it to nearsightedness caused by nutrient deficiency, taking vitamins and using artificial tears, but her eyesight did not improve.

Dr. Pham Huy Vu Tung, Deputy Head of the Ophthalmology Department at the High-Tech Eye Center, Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, diagnosed Ms. Ly with severe macular degeneration (macula - the central part of the retina) in both eyes. The tissue in the macular region was thin, with deposits in the retina. Blood vessels in the retina had ruptured, causing blood and fluid leakage, leading to macular edema. Doctors prescribed oral medication combined with two intravitreal injections, one month apart.

Dr. Huy Tung examines Ms. Ly's eyes. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Ms. Ly sought an endocrinology examination due to frequent fatigue, thirst, and rapid weight loss, suspecting diabetic complications. Test results showed a high HbA1c blood sugar index of 7,5% (normal is below 5,7%), and her fasting blood sugar index was almost double the normal level of approximately 126 mg/dL.

Dr. Vo Tran Nguyen Duy, a Level one Specialist from the Endocrinology and Diabetes Department, diagnosed Ms. Ly with type 2 diabetes. Poor blood sugar control led to diabetic macular degeneration. Fluctuations in blood sugar destabilize the osmotic pressure in the eyes, forcing them to constantly adjust. This condition causes temporary vision impairment, which can eventually lead to blindness.

Dr. Duy advises Ms. Ly on diabetes treatment. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

According to Dr. Duy, diabetic patients with uncontrolled blood sugar may experience various eye problems such as: blurred vision, eye pain, and a dry, burning sensation. However, these conditions can be managed with regular eye examinations and stable blood sugar and blood lipid levels.

Ms. Ly is undergoing treatment to stabilize her blood sugar, preventing further long-term damage to her vision and other organs. In addition to daily medication, she requires regular follow-up appointments as prescribed by her doctor.

Dr. Duy stated that it is common for women with gestational diabetes to neglect monitoring and treatment, leading to type 2 diabetes, similar to Ms. Ly's case. Beyond eye complications, other common diabetic complications include: numbness and tingling in the limbs, loss of sensation in the feet, which can result in permanent damage such as amputation of toes, part or all of the foot, or the lower leg.

If diagnosed with gestational diabetes, women should manage their blood sugar effectively immediately after birth to prevent vascular damage. Regular follow-up examinations help control the disease. It is advisable to maintain a healthy diet and exercise to keep blood pressure and cholesterol at safe levels. Regular eye exams can detect abnormalities early, allowing for prompt treatment to avoid dangerous complications.

Bach Duong