•Dr Priscilia Imade
DEFINITION
Diabetic cataract refers to the clouding or opacity of the eye’s natural crystalline lens due to diabetes, leading to vision impairment.
CAUSES
1. Sorbitol Accumulation: High blood sugar leads to sorbitol buildup in the lens, causing swelling and clouding.
2. Oxidative Stress: Diabetes increases free radicals, damaging lens proteins and promoting cataracts.
3. Protein Glycation: Excess glucose attaches to lens proteins, making them prone to clumping.
4. Aldose Reductase Activity: High enzyme activity due to diabetes speeds up cataract formation.
SYMPTOMS
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Faded colors
• Poor night vision
• Double vision in one eye
RISK FACTORS
• Longer duration of diabetes
• Poor blood sugar control
• Age (higher risk for older diabetics)
• Associated conditions like hypertension and obesity
PREVENTION
• Control blood sugar levels
• Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle
• Regular eye examination (recommended annually for diabetics)
• Avoid smoking to reduce oxidative stress
DIAGNOSIS
• Visual Acuity Test: Measures clarity of vision
• Slit-Lamp Examination: Examines the lens and other eye structures
• Dilated Eye Examination: Provides a detailed view of the lens and retina
TREATMENT
• Cataract Surgery: Removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with an intraocular lens (IOL).
• Pre-Surgery: Stabilize blood sugar and check for diabetic retinopathy.
• Post-Surgery Care: Use prescribed eye drops and protect eyes; monitor blood sugar.
COMPLICATIONS OF DIABETES
• Delayed Healing: Poor blood sugar can slow healing and increase infection risk.
• Diabetic Retinopathy Progression: Surgery may accelerate retinopathy; monitor closely.
• Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO): Can cause cloudiness post-surgery; treatable with a laser.
With proper blood sugar control, lifestyle adjustments, regular eye examination and cataract surgery when necessary, diabetic individuals can maintain better vision and quality of life.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
