Are alcohol and diabetic retinopathy (DR) linked? There is strong evidence that they are. But first, what is DR?
Overview
I. The Disease
II. The Study
III. Risk Factors
IV. Resources
I. The Disease
DR is a disease that causes impaired vision or even total blindness. It does this by damaging blood vessels in the retina. The retina is needed for vision. This disease usually affects both eyes. And it can affect anyone with diabetes. That is, either type 1 or type 2.
In early stages of the disease, there may be no symptoms. But as it progresses, symptoms may include these.
- Blurred vision.
- Dark or empty areas in vision.
- Floaters (That is, spots or strings that float in vision.)
- Fluctuating vision.
- Impaired color vision.
Here’s an example of normal vision compared with DR. As vision deteriorates, the black patches continue to spread. That can lead to total blindness.
II. The Study: Alcohol and Diabetic Retinopathy
The researchers found that diabetics who drank alcohol had nearly two-thirds lower risk of developing the disease. That was in comparison with non-drinkers. But there was no link between drinking and progression. That is, once the disease began.
So the bottom line is simple. Drinking alcohol greatly reduces the chance of getting this serious eye disease.
III. Risk Factors
Anyone who has diabetes can develop DR. Risk of developing it can increase as a result of these.
IV. Resources: Alcohol and Diabetic Retinopathy
Web
- Drinking Alcohol and Type 2 Diabetes.
- Risk of Metabolic Syndrome Reduced by Drinking Alcohol. (The syndrome can cause diabetes.)
- Type 2 Diabetes Death Risk Reduced by Drinking Alcohol.
Source
- Moss, S. et al. The association of alcohol consumption with the incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy. Ophtha, 2020,101(12), 1962-68.
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Note
- Alcohol and diabetic retinopathy are related. Drinking greatly reduces the risk of getting the disease. But this site gives no advice. Please see your doctor with questions.