What You Need to Know about Diabetes and Cataracts

If you have diabetes, you should talk with your optometrist in Champaign, IL, about your eyes. Diabetes can wreak havoc on your eyes, and that includes giving you diabetic cataracts. Keep reading to learn more.

What Are Diabetic Cataracts?

People who have diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at an earlier age than those without diabetes. As you age, the lenses in your eyes become thicker and less transparent. But when you have diabetes, and you age, your high blood sugar levels can change the structure of the lens of your eyes. This is what accelerates the growth of cataracts in your eyes.

When this happens, you will notice clouding in your eyes. Therefore, it’s extremely important to schedule a cataract eye exam in Champaign, IL, immediately if you begin to notice changes in your vision.

What Type of Cataracts Are Caused by Diabetes?

The most common type of cataracts in people with diabetes is called senile type [10]. However, those with type 1 diabetes commonly have what’s called snowflake cataracts. Then, there are posterior subcapsular cataracts that are also associated with people who have diabetes. Your eye doctor in Champaign, IL, will be able to examine your eyes and tell you which type of cataracts you have.

What Is the Treatment for Diabetic Cataracts?

There are several available treatments for diabetic cataracts at the time of surgery that will help prevent your cataracts from getting worse. These include intravitreal steroids of both injections and implants. There are also macular laser therapy treatments and intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor medications as well.

Do You Need an Optometrist in Champaign, IL?

If you need an optometrist in Champaign, IL, please Contact Champaign Eye Professionals today. We have two highly skilled optometrists on staff, and we are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy vision throughout your life.