Diabetes can have a large impact on our lives. Not only does the disease affect the way the body handles blood glucose, but it can also hurt various areas of the body. This includes the eyes, a part that many people do not realize can be affected by the condition. There are several ways in which diabetes can contribute to the development of cataracts or worsen existing ones. This is why diabetics should always stay aware of their vision and note any changes or symptoms to their healthcare provider.
We are going to take a closer look at factors diabetics should understand regarding cataracts in this article. This can help you make more informed choices and be better prepared for cases of cataracts, knowing what to expect.
Poor Diabetes Control And The Risk Of Cataracts
The major risk factor comes into play among people who do not properly manage their diabetes. In some areas, almost 50% of diabetics poorly manage their diabetes. The improper management of this condition is not always the result of the patient not adhering to a treatment plan, but can also be attributed to by poor access to medical services.
When diabetes is not managed the right way, it can lead to serious complications. According to the World Health Organization diabetes causes around two million deaths every year.
The rate at which diabetes causes premature death also increases by approximately 3% annually.
In cases where diabetes is poorly controlled, an excessive amount of sorbitol can collect in the eyes. Sorbitol is a type of sugar that the body creates from glucose. The sorbitol collects inside the lens of the eye, which can contribute to the formation of cataracts.
The chances of developing cataracts due to the build-up of sorbitol in the eye’s lens increase when blood glucose levels are consistently high.
Diabetes Accelerates Cataract Progression
Individuals who have diabetes should also be aware of the fact that the condition can cause cataracts to progress at a faster rate. Cataracts that are related to age are generally referred to as nuclear sclerotic cataracts. These have a relatively slow progression rate. People sometimes experience cataracts at a younger age when they have diabetes, in which case they are referred to as posterior subcapsular cataracts.
This type of cataract causes an opacity to develop at the rear side of the eye’s lens. It is a fast-growing and progressing type of cataract that can cause a decrease in vision as well as increase your sensitivity to light.
Studies have revealed that this is not the most common kind of cataract that occurs, making up just about 3% of cases where a cataract affects one eye. It is, however, still important to understand the fact that it has been linked to diabetes.
Surgery Selection Among Diabetics With Cataracts
When you develop cataracts, it is important to consider the available treatment options. One thing to keep in mind is the fact that diabetics often find that wounds take longer to heal compared to those who do not have diabetes.
This is why it is so important to ensure an early diagnosis of cataracts among individuals who have diabetes. Different types of surgical and treatment procedures can be used to assist with the removal of cataracts. If you have diabetes, however, then you should consider the option of undergoing laser cataract surgery.
This is a less invasive surgical procedure compared to options like a lens replacement. Phacoemulsification is the process that surgeons typically use during the removal of cataracts. The technique essentially submits ultrasonic sound waves into the eye – with a focus on the site where the cataract formed.
The ultrasonic waves cause the breakdown of the cataract. The surgeon will either attempt to break the cataract down into very tiny pieces or liquefy it. A special tool is then used to suck these pieces of liquid out of the patient’s eye.
When the surgeon needs to use a large number of sound waves, then the risk of inflammation developing in the eye following the procedure increases. This also comes with a higher risk of experiencing some complications that have been associated with cataract removal surgeries.
Studies have shown that the use of laser cataract removal poses a safer alternative to the use of these ultrasonic sound waves. Some patients may still need to undergo a procedure that uses these sound waves following the use of a laser, but the amount of sound waves required to effectively remove the cataract is significantly reduced.
Benefits Of An Early Diagnosis
There are cases where young individuals who have been diagnosed with diabetes develop cataracts that are not age-related. Many of these individuals notice a subtle decrease in vision over time but continue to delay a trip to a healthcare provider to investigate the matter. Unfortunately, this can lead to serious complications – sometimes even putting the patient’s life in danger.
For example, when the person continues to delay, they may end up with vision problems that affect their ability to drive properly. This creates a risk of accidents due to the poor vision that the patient develops. An early diagnosis and treatment can also limit the patient’s exposure to potential complications that can occur following a surgical procedure. Less healing is required due to a procedure that is not as invasive as it might have been in case the patient had waited longer before they decided to see a specialist. There may also be a greater number of options available to the patient if they are diagnosed with cataracts at an early age.
Conclusion
Cataracts are an inconvenience and can sometimes lead to serious complications, including vision loss. People with diabetes may be more susceptible to the development of cataracts, as well as the complications that they can cause. Poor management of diabetes can aggravate these problems, which is why diabetics should ensure they keep their blood glucose levels as stable as possible. There are effective treatment solutions available for diabetics who develop cataracts.