Can Obesity Affect Your Eye Health
More Than Meets the Eye
When people talk about health concerns linked to obesity, they often mention diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and joint pain. But one area that tends to be overlooked is eye health. Your eyes, like your heart or kidneys, rely on a healthy vascular system and are deeply connected to the body’s overall function.
At Eyes By Design, we regularly see how systemic changes can show up in the eyes. Vision issues are not always isolated. In many cases, they reflect underlying health conditions that deserve attention.
The Connection Between Your Body and Your Eyes
The eyes are small but highly vascular. They require constant oxygenation and nutrient flow to function properly. When someone is carrying excess weight, particularly in the case of obesity, metabolic and inflammatory processes can begin to impact these delicate tissues.
This impact is not always immediate. Changes often develop slowly and without symptoms until vision is noticeably compromised.
Eye Conditions Where Obesity May Play a Role
Diabetic Retinopathy
Excess weight increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the retina. This condition is known as diabetic retinopathy and it is one of the leading causes of vision loss among working age adults. It often begins without noticeable symptoms which is why routine eye exams are critical if you are managing or at risk of diabetes.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma involves increased pressure within the eye that can damage the optic nerve. While it can occur in anyone, research suggests a possible link between obesity and elevated intraocular pressure. This may be due to fluid dynamics in the eye or changes in blood circulation. Glaucoma is often asymptomatic in its early stages and can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected early.
Age Related Macular Degeneration
The macula is the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. Some studies indicate that obesity may contribute to faster progression of macular degeneration through increased inflammation and oxidative stress. This can affect daily tasks like reading, recognising faces, and driving.
Cataracts
While ageing remains the most common cause of cataracts, people with obesity are more likely to develop them earlier. Inflammation and insulin resistance may contribute to changes in the lens of the eye. Cataracts are treatable with surgery but early detection remains important for optimal outcomes.
The Link Between Sleep Apnoea and Eye Health
Obesity is a known risk factor for sleep apnoea, which can reduce oxygen flow during sleep and fragment sleep quality. Several eye conditions are associated with untreated sleep apnoea including:
- Floppy Eyelid Syndrome
- Glaucoma
- Non-arteritic Anterior Ischaemic Optic Neuropathy
Sleep apnoea can also worsen dry eye symptoms, especially in people using CPAP machines. If the mask leaks or directs airflow near the eyes, moisture levels on the eye surface can drop overnight, leading to discomfort upon waking.
Dry Eyes and Eye Discomfort
Some individuals with obesity report higher rates of dry eye symptoms and eye strain. These may be linked to hormonal changes, systemic inflammation, or the medications used to manage associated health conditions. While these symptoms are not always severe, they can impact quality of life and deserve proper assessment.
How You Can Support Your Vision
Get regular eye checks
If you are managing high blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic conditions, regular eye exams are essential. We look beyond the prescription and examine the retina, optic nerve, and vascular health of the eye.
Support your body through food
Eating a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, colourful vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains supports both metabolic and ocular health. Nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and zinc are known to protect against age-related vision changes.
Move your body
Physical activity improves blood flow, reduces systemic inflammation, and helps regulate blood sugar. Even modest daily movement can have positive effects on your eyes.
Manage systemic risk factors
Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol within healthy ranges slows the progression of obesity-related eye disease and reduces risk of vision loss.
Your Vision Deserves the Same Attention as the Rest of Your Health
Eye health is an essential part of overall wellbeing. Many changes happen quietly and without warning. A proactive approach makes all the difference.
Your eyes are a reflection of your health.
Let us work with you to protect them at every stage of life.
If you are managing long-term health concerns or have noticed changes in your vision, Eyes by Design is here to help. There is no judgment, just professional care and a desire to help you see clearly for the long term.
Related Reading
If you are exploring options like GLP-1 as part of your weight management journey, it is important to understand how these treatments may also affect your vision. We have written about the ocular implications of Ozempic in more detail here: Ozempic and Vision Health Implications
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general eye health topics.
It should not be used as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your health care professional prior to incorporating this as part of your health regimen.
Dr Nicholas Altuneg
For over two decades, my greatest passion has been helping people of all ages live improved lives through better vision. At Eyes by Design, vision is so much more than being able to see clearly or read small letters from far away; it determines your perceptions and reactions every second of the day.
Read more about Dr Nick
