If diabetes is left untreated, it can lead to various complications, such as nerve damage and cardiovascular disease. High blood sugar levels can also raise the risk of vision problems, including cataracts. But how exactly can diabetes lead to cataracts? Read on to find out.

The Association Between Diabetes and Cataracts

Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels exceed normal ranges. A person is diagnosed with diabetes if their fasting blood sugar is higher than 126 mg/dl and their random blood sugar exceeds 200 mg/dl.

When high blood sugar levels are not controlled, they can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the eyes. This damage can result in vision disorders, including cataracts.

In individuals with diabetes, high blood sugar levels cause the fluid in the eye called aqueous humor (the liquid between the eyeball and the cornea lens) to contain excess sugar. This fluid provides nutrients and oxygen to the lens of the eye. When it’s overloaded with sugar, the lens can swell, leading to blurred vision.

Additionally, high blood sugar levels cause enzymes in the eye lens to convert glucose into sorbitol, a substance that can also lead to blurred vision when present in high amounts.

Cataracts in people with diabetes are more common in the elderly, those who have had diabetes for a long time, and individuals with poor blood sugar control. For elderly aged 65 and above with diabetes, the risk of cataracts is up to four times higher compared to elderly without diabetes.

Cataract Treatments

Cataracts caused by diabetes can often be treated with surgery, although not every case requires it. If the condition is not significantly affecting daily vision and blood sugar levels can be controlled with medication, doctors may opt for non-surgical management.

Other treatment options include:

• Using corrective glasses

• Ensuring adequate lighting while reading

• Using anti-glare coating on eyeglasses

Regular cataract check-ups are important to monitor the condition and assess the effectiveness of any treatments.

Preventing Cataracts Caused by Diabetes

Cataracts caused by diabetes are one of the complications that can be prevented. The key to prevention is controlling blood sugar levels. Some effective ways to do this include:

• Taking diabetes medications as prescribed

• Limiting foods high in sugar

• Eating a diet rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats

• Exercising regularly for at least 150 minutes per week

• Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly

When to See a Doctor?

If you have diabetes and notice changes in your vision, it’s important to consult a doctor right away. Be mindful of other symptoms, such as:

• Decreased vision

• Persistent eye pain that doesn’t improve

• Red or worsening eyes

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications like nerve damage and cataracts. However, with proper treatment, these issues can be prevented. If you have health-related questions, you can use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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