Diabetics May Be at Greater Risk for Cataracts

When you think of cataracts, do you think of old age? Cataracts aren't just an old age condition. Diabetics of any age are at greater risk for getting cataracts. To learn why, read on.

Clear Lens Vs. Cloudy Lens

First, it's important to understand how we see. Light enters the eye and passes through the lens on its way to the back of the eye. That focused light on the retina is transformed into impulses that are sent to the brain. But when the eye lens becomes cloudy--such as what happens with cataracts--the light doesn't pass through the lens in the same way. Instead, the light is scattered in various directions, resulting in blurred sight.

Visual Effect of Cataracts

Cataracts aren't painful; however, they do cause loss of visual acuity, dulling or fading colors, double vision, night blindness, and impaired sight. Cataracts can worsen quickly or slowly. Seniors encounter cataracts more oven because of advancing age, but the likelihood of developing cataracts also increases with diabetes. Diabetics may get a cataract at a young age, and the cataract may progress fast.

Diabetics at Greater Risk

According to the American Diabetes Association, "people with diabetes are 60% more likely to develop this eye condition." High blood sugar levels can cause the lens of the eye to swell and not focus light. Eventually, the lens clouds up, blocks light, and vision is impaired.

Blood Sugar Level Control

Diabetics can lower their chances of getting cataracts if they maintain good blood sugar control. A good range is between 70 mg/dl and 120 mg/dl, 1-2 hours following a meal. Blood sugar levels falling below 70 mg/dl are considered risky, and those consistently above 120 mg/dl are considered high. Generally, the higher the blood sugar level, the greater the risk for cataracts.

Impact of Diet and Exercise

Diet is a key component in being able to successfully manage blood sugar levels. In addition, a good diet, with blood sugar levels under control, improves antioxidant defense--while a poor diet weakens the body's antioxidant defense. More specifically, a good diet is one that's low in sodium and animal fat, and high in fiber, vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. Exercise is also a key component in successfully managing blood sugar levels.

Surgery Intervention

A cataract can be removed surgically and the lens replaced with an artificial lens. Although it's not cheap, it's a surgery performed quite often. Many diabetics end up needing cataract surgery in order to see well enough to go about daily activities. Recovery is frequently more complicated for a diabetic.

Other Intervention Options

Some diabetics may not have the option of surgery--due to eye conditions. Others may not want surgery. In such cases, less invasive treatments include: anti-glare lenses, sunglasses, magnifying glasses, use of bright lights, and certain pharmaceuticals. Diabetics should get an annual eye exam to keep track of cataract progression or other eye disorders.

Sadly, if left untreated, cataracts can result in loss of vision. But with a healthy diet and blood sugar management, diabetics can lessen the risks and effects of cataracts.

Resource:

American Diabetic Association, "Eye Complications",
http://www.diabetes.org/type-1-diabetes/eye-complications.jsp