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Cataracts are one of the main eye disorders that can affect diabetic patients’ eyesight, along with diseases including diabetic macular edema, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and glaucoma.
The Wisconsin Epidemiologic Study of Diabetic Retinopathy revealed that the 10-year cumulative incidence of cataract surgery was 24.9% for patients with type 2 diabetes and 83% for patients with type 1 diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus, a chronic systemic condition, is becoming common worldwide. One of the most prevalent consequences of diabetes is its effect on eye health, which can lead to various vision-threatening diseases. Cataracts are one of the main eye disorders that can affect diabetic patients’ eyesight, along with diseases including diabetic macular edema, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and glaucoma.
Every human eye has a natural lens which helps in focussing the light from outside on to the retina. If the transparency of the lens gets affected, it’s called Cataract. Diabetes increases the risk of cataract formation by various mechanisms such as Polyol Pathway (increased fluid accumulation in the lens), Osmotic stress and even autoimmune process. Dr. Rakesh Seenappa, Regional Head- Retina Services, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru shares all you need to know:
Diabetes and Cataract formation: Understanding the link
- Osmotic Stress and the Polyol PathwayThe polyol pathway is the process by which sorbitol (small molecule) builds up in the lens of the eye because of diabetic patients’ increased blood sugar levels. Osmotic stress and increased fluid buildup within the lens are the results of this, which can reduce clarity and ultimately cause cataract development.
- Evidence from EpidemiologyNumerous studies have shown that individuals with diabetes have a greater frequency of cataracts:
The Wisconsin Epidemiologic Study of Diabetic Retinopathy revealed that the 10-year cumulative incidence of cataract surgery was 24.9% for patients with type 2 diabetes and 83% for patients with type 1 diabetes.
According to this research, diabetes and a higher risk of cataract development are clearly related, emphasizing the necessity of routine monitoring and prompt treatment.
Important steps for Diabetic patients to prevent Cataracts
Although cataracts cannot be reversed, appropriate diabetes treatment can reduce their incidence and progression. Strict glycemic management is the best way to lower the risk of cataract development. The following are the main steps diabetics should take to protect their eyes:
Strict glycemic management
• The key to avoiding diabetes complications, such as cataracts, is to maintain blood sugar levels within the desired range.
• The risk of cataract development can be considerably decreased by routinely checking blood glucose levels and carefully collaborating with a healthcare professional to control medication, diet, and exercise.
Routine Eye Exams
Early detection of cataracts enables prompt intervention and helps prevent additional consequences related to vision loss. Annual eye exams are essential for diagnosing cataracts as well as other diabetic eye disorders including diabetic retinopathy.
Controlling Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Diabetes-related ocular problems can be exacerbated by hypertension and elevated cholesterol. Maintaining eye health can be achieved by managing these disorders with medication and lifestyle modifications.
Protecting eyes from UV Light
People with diabetes are already at a higher risk of developing cataracts, so wearing sunglasses that block UV rays can help lower that risk.
Healthy lifestyle choices
Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and quitting smoking are all crucial for general health and can help stop or postpone the onset of cataract.
Treatment of Cataracts in patients with Diabetes
Even though cataracts cannot be reversed, contemporary surgical methods have improved the effectiveness and accessibility of treatment. Micro-incision phacoemulsification, a minimally invasive technique, is the most widely used technique for cataract removal.
A new intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to restore vision after the hazy cataractous lens is removed via a tiny 2.2 mm incision. Its long-term stability and lower risk of posterior capsule opacification, hydrophobic IOLs with square edges are frequently chosen. To choose the ideal lens type for their needs and eye health, patients should consult with their ophthalmologist.