Hidden warning signs of diabetes that affect your EYES

It may sound like nothing is wrong – and most of the time it isn’t.

But redness around your eyes could actually be a sign of something much more ominous.

Opticians warn it could be a hidden sign of type 2 diabetes.

And by the time it destroys your eyesight, it may already be well advanced.

It may sound like nothing is wrong – and most of the time it isn’t. But redness around your eyes could actually be a sign of something much more ominous. stock

Kyla Black, from Boots Opticiens, said: ‘Eye tests check your vision and whether you need glasses.

“But they also play a vital role in checking for potentially serious health problems like diabetes.”

She spoke out as part of Diabetes Awareness Week and listed five symptoms you should be alert to.

Ms. Black, who has been working as an optometrist for over 25 years, had, among other things, gradual deterioration of vision or sudden loss of vision.

Shapes floating in your field of vision (floaters), blurry or blotchy vision, and eye pain or redness were her other three warning signs.

Problems with the eyes are caused by diabetic retinopathy, a complication of the condition itself.

Without treatment, it can lead to blindness. But it can take years to reach this stage, the NHS says.

It is caused by high blood sugar levels that damage blood vessels that supply the back of the eye, the retina.

Ms Black said: ‘It may not show any obvious symptoms until the condition is more advanced.

“These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have diabetes, but it’s important to get them checked.”