Can Diabetes Effect Your Cataracts?

Can Diabetes Effect Your Cataracts?

Diabetes & Cataracts can be progressive conditions. Many develop these conditions as they age, but with both they can come at early stages in a person’s life. Learning to cope with both Diabetes and Cataracts can be a challenge. Early education can help you know what’s coming in the future and prepare you for what you are dealing with now.

Diabetes:

Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of Diabetes. Management of your blood glucose (sugar) levels are extremely important the more out of control these levels get the harder it is to control the complications associated with the condition. For those struggling with various forms of Diabetes, they can develop problems with the eyes, the kidneys, and depending on their medications the liver. For those who have trouble managing their Diabetes a team of medical professionals is often needed.

Cataracts:

Cataracts are a clouding of the natural internal lens of the eye. As Cataracts develop vision slowly declines. Those who have Cataracts often suffer from Age-Related Cataracts it accounts for 90% of those with the Cataracts. Age-related Cataracts generally progresses over years, and an eventual Cataracts surgery is necessary. But in cases with those with Diabetes Cataracts can progress more quickly, in some cases within 6 months to a year. In those with Diabetes the glucose (sugar) levels can affect the lens causing the Cataracts to progress much more rapidly.

If you have Diabetes and Cataracts it is wise for you to see your eye care professional every 6 months. Diabetes and Cataracts is one of the leading causes of blurred vision in the United States. Taking extra special care of your eyes is of the most importance. Being sure that you follow your doctor’s instructions, and obtain regular eye check-ups can help monitor the progression of the condition. Cataracts surgery is the most common eye surgery performed every year in the United States. Don’t despair when you notice the vision decline from Cataracts, a 15-20 minute outpatient surgery will remove the clouded lens and improve your vision.

Below are the symptoms of Cataracts:

Blurred vision

Poor night vision

Frequent prescription changes

Halos around the lights

Sensitivity to glare from headlights

Shadows around images

The chance of you developing Cataracts earlier in life if you have Diabetes is higher. If you have any of the above symptoms please consult your eye care professional and get your eyes checked every 6 months to a year to preserve your vision.

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