Diabetic Cataracts: Symptoms, Treatment & More
If you’re living with diabetes, you've probably heard that it can affect your eyes. Part of controlling diabetes involves monitoring your eye health for significant changes. One of the lesser-known complications of diabetes is that it can contribute to cataract development, even in younger people.
So, what are cataracts? How are they linked to diabetes? And most importantly, what can you do about them? In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about diabetic cataracts. We’ll explain how they form, how they affect your sight, and what treatment options are available. You’ll also find practical tips for looking after your eye health, especially if you’re managing diabetes.
If you’re considering treatment for cataracts in the Cheshire area, you can book a free video appointment with Dan Nguyen or take a suitability self-test to explore your options. We aim to walk you through the ins and outs of the procedure from pre-op to recovery, with guides on common side effects, like treatment for watery eyes after cataract surgery, as well as general guidance on recovery timelines.
For now, let’s explore the connection between diabetes and cataract formation.
Can Diabetes Cause Cataracts?
A cataract is when the clear lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. This cloudiness makes it harder to see clearly. You might feel like you're looking through a foggy window. Cataracts can make colours look faded, lights seem too bright, and reading or driving more difficult.
How does diabetes increase your risk of cataracts?
Diabetes can raise your risk of developing cataracts earlier and faster than someone without diabetes. That’s because high blood sugar levels over time can damage many parts of your body, including your eyes. When sugar builds up in your eye's lens, it can cause swelling and changes to the lens that lead to cloudiness.
Who is most at risk of diabetic cataracts?
If you've had diabetes for many years, especially if it hasn't always been well controlled, your risk goes up. People over 50 are also more likely to develop cataracts. But even younger adults with diabetes can be affected, especially if blood sugar levels are often high.
What Do Diabetic Cataracts Feel Like?
You might not notice cataracts at first. They usually form slowly. But over time, you could start to experience:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Faded colours
- Sensitivity to bright light or glare
- Trouble seeing at night
- Needing more light to read or do close work
- Seeing halos around lights
Do diabetic cataracts happen suddenly?
Cataracts often take years to develop, but in people with diabetes, they can progress more quickly. You might go from having no symptoms to noticeable changes in just a few months. While they don’t need to be treated immediately, many people benefit from an early intervention to improve their quality of life, as vision problems can put a hamper on many everyday activities.
How Do Cataracts Develop in People with Diabetes?
What’s happening inside your eye?
Your eye's lens is normally clear and flexible. But in diabetes, excess sugar in the bloodstream gets into the lens. There, it changes into a substance called sorbitol. Sorbitol attracts water, which causes the lens to swell. Over time, this swelling makes the lens cloudy.
How does high blood sugar affect this?
When your blood sugar is often high, it feeds this process. The longer your sugar stays raised, the more damage can build up. This doesn’t just affect your lens – it can also harm your retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels in the eye.
Can controlling your blood sugar help?
Yes. Good diabetes control slows down the damage. It doesn’t guarantee that you’ll avoid cataracts, but it does reduce your risk. Keeping your blood sugar in target range helps keep your lens clearer for longer.
What Happens If Diabetic Cataracts Are Left Untreated?
Left untreated, cataracts will gradually get worse. Your vision may become so cloudy that everyday activities – like reading, recognising faces, or driving – become difficult or even impossible.
Can diabetes cause other eye problems?
People with diabetes also have a higher chance of developing other serious eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the part of your eye that senses light. This can lead to bleeding, swelling, and even permanent vision loss if not treated in time.
Glaucoma, on the other hand, is a condition where the pressure inside your eye builds up and damages the optic nerve, which sends visual information to your brain.
Both of these conditions can develop silently, without noticeable symptoms at first, and can progress alongside cataracts. When you have more than one eye condition at the same time, your vision may decline more quickly. For example, a cataract might make it harder to detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy during an eye exam. Or, if you have glaucoma as well as cataracts, your treatment plan may need to be carefully adjusted to manage both conditions safely.
Managing multiple eye problems also means more frequent check-ups, careful coordination between specialists, and a tailored treatment approach. This is why regular eye exams and early intervention are especially important if you have diabetes—catching problems early gives you the best chance of protecting your sight.
How Are Diabetic Cataracts Diagnosed?
What to expect at your eye appointment
A comprehensive eye exam can confirm whether you have cataracts. During this visit, your eye doctor may:
- Ask about your symptoms and general health
- Use a special light to look into your eyes
- Dilate (widen) your pupils to check your lens and retina
- Measure how well you can see
How often should you have eye checks if you have diabetes?
You should have your eyes checked at least once a year. If you've been told you have diabetic eye disease, or if your vision has changed, your eye doctor may want to see you more often.
What Is the Treatment for Diabetic Cataracts?
Is there a way to stop or reverse cataracts without surgery?
Once a cataract forms, it can’t be reversed. Eye drops, glasses, or lifestyle changes won’t clear up the cloudiness. Surgery is the only treatment that removes a cataract.
What happens during cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure. The surgeon removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure usually takes about 20–30 minutes and is often done under local anaesthetic.
What lens options are there for people with diabetes?
You may be offered a monofocal lens, which provides clear vision at one distance (usually far). Some people choose a premium lens, which may reduce the need for glasses. Your ophthalmologist will help you decide what’s best based on your eye health and lifestyle.
Is cataract surgery safe for people with diabetes?
Yes. When done by an experienced surgeon, cataract surgery is generally very safe for people with diabetes. Managing your blood sugar well before and after surgery can help with healing and reduce the risk of complications.
What Is Recovery Like After Cataract Surgery?
How long does it take to heal?
Most people notice clearer vision within a few days. Complete healing usually takes about four to six weeks. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions for caring for your eye during this time.
What should you do after surgery?
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed
- Avoid rubbing your eye
- Wear an eye shield at night if advised
- Avoid heavy lifting or swimming until your doctor says it’s safe
Will I still need glasses after surgery?
It depends on the type of lens you choose during your cataract surgery. A monofocal lens, which is the most commonly used option, is designed to give you clear vision at one set distance—usually far away. This means you may still need glasses for near tasks, such as reading, using your phone, or sewing. If you choose a monofocal lens set for near vision instead, you might then need glasses for distance tasks like driving or watching TV.
Some people opt for what's called a multifocal or extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) lens. These are designed to give you a broader range of clear vision, allowing you to see well at both near and far distances—sometimes reducing or even removing the need for glasses altogether. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for premium lenses, especially if you have other eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration, which can affect how well these lenses work.
Your ophthalmologist will help guide you based on your vision needs, lifestyle, and overall eye health. It’s important to have a detailed discussion before surgery, so you know what to expect and can make the best choice for your daily life.
How to Take Care of Your Eyes If You Have Diabetes
1. Keep your blood sugar under control.
This is the most important step you can take. Keeping your blood glucose in a healthy range helps protect your eyes and can slow the development of cataracts and other conditions.
2. Don’t skip your eye appointments.
Even if your vision seems fine, regular check-ups can catch problems early. Early treatment can prevent bigger issues later on.
3. Eat well and live a healthy lifestyle.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and not smoking can all support good eye health. Leafy greens, colourful vegetables, and foods rich in omega-3 are especially helpful.
4. Watch for changes in your sight.
Tell your eye specialist if you notice any new symptoms, such as blurry vision, floaters, flashes of light, or pain in your eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetic Cataracts
Can cataracts from diabetes go away on their own?
No. Cataracts don’t go away without surgery. However, good diabetes control can help prevent them from forming or getting worse.
Is cataract surgery covered by the NHS?
Yes. If your cataracts affect your daily life and meet certain criteria, the NHS will usually cover your surgery. However, options for lens types and scheduling may be more limited compared to private care.
Does cataract surgery help if you also have diabetic eye disease?
Yes. Cataract surgery can still improve your vision even if you have diabetic retinopathy or other conditions. Your surgeon will consider all aspects of your eye health before recommending surgery.
What’s the difference between diabetic retinopathy and cataracts?
Diabetic retinopathy affects the blood vessels in the retina, while cataracts affect the lens of the eye. Both can reduce your vision, and it's possible to have both at the same time.
How do I know when it’s time to consider surgery?
Living with diabetes doesn’t mean you have to accept worsening vision. Cataracts are a common complication, but they can be treated safely and effectively.
If cataracts are stopping you from doing everyday tasks like reading, working, or driving, it may be time to speak to a specialist. You don’t have to wait until your vision is very poor to seek help.
When Should You Speak to an Eye Specialist?
If you’re living with diabetes and starting to notice vision changes, don’t wait. The sooner you speak to a specialist, the more options you’ll have to protect your sight. Even if your symptoms are mild, getting a professional opinion can give you peace of mind.
At Dan Nguyen’s clinic, we offer personal support, expert advice, and a full range of eye care services, from early diagnosis to advanced treatments. You're always welcome to book a free video appointment to talk through your concerns or take a suitability self-test to see which treatments could help you.
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DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products and methods mentioned are not a substitute for professional medical advice from a trained healthcare specialist. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Use of the information and products discussed is at your own risk.
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Mr Dan Nguyen
MBChB MBA FRCOphth FRANZCO
Consultant Eye Surgeon
Hello, I’m Dan Nguyen!
I‘m your guide to better vision. In times when long waiting lists and unclear options are the norm, it’s easy to feel stuck and worried about your eye health. Don’t let that hold you back. I’m here to show you that you can skip the endless queues and make real progress. Remember, you’re unique, not just another name on a list. Every patient I see receives top-notch care, tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle. Once you’ve had your treatment, you’ll be able to embrace a life that’s vivid, colourful, and just the way you like it. So what are you waiting for? Stop waiting and start living!
