What does it mean if you see lines that look like stripes or swirlies?

Question

I have a friend that diabetic (recently diagnosed). She's not a bad diabetic. Ive sen her load down in sugar and her sugar not jump beyond the 200s. Sometimes, I even question the accuracy of her dx.

Answer 1

A sugar level of 200 is not good. It is dangerous.

In the A1C test normal sugar level is below 6.0. Anything above 7.0 requires attention.

I am not sure what you mean by swipes and swirls. If they are like little shadows seen out of the sides of her eyes she should see an eye doctor.

Loading down with sugar is not good. Diabetes is a serious progressive disease that is know for its many complications such as blindness, heart problems, kidney problems, high cholesterol, neuropothy, dental problems and a host of problems.

Even though your friend was RECENTLY diagnosed it does not mean that she was not a diabetic for years before the diagnosis.

She need to revise her ways and quickly to reduce or eliminate the problems. A friend of mine is diabetic (I am too) and would not hear of anyone telling her to avoid the cakes, salt and to eat properly. Today she is blind.

It is very important that she sees an endocrinologist on a regular basis, take her medications, and follow the directions that she receives. If not, she will suffer terrible penalties that can mostly be avoided.

Answer 2

Aside from the good advice already given (i.e. take diabetes seriously), what you describe sounds more like something other than diabetic retinopathy.

"Stripes and Swirlies" may be seen in those with migraines (and believe it or not there is such a thing as "silent" migraines) or as part of the visual disturbances seen in those with severely high blood pressure.

Regardless, your eyes are something to take seriously, especially if you have diabetes. Have her see her doctor for a complete physical and have her referred to an ophthalmologist ASAP for a complete diabetic eye exam to be safe.

Visual disturbances may also indicate a neurological disease like Multiple Sclerosis.

Answer 3

maybe her tabulism is different then you but shes hurting herself. thtais what shes doing. cause that is not good if it don't read high well it will later on that day shes not telling you.