Diabetes has become one of the most common chronic illnesses in India, and Bihar is witnessing a steady rise in the number of diabetic patients every year. While people living with diabetes are aware of issues like high sugar levels, nerve damage, or kidney problems, many are still unaware of the impact diabetes can have on the eyes. One of the major concerns is whether diabetes can lead to cataract. The answer is yes—diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing cataracts, and often at a much younger age than the general population.
This blog explores the connection between diabetes and cataracts, early signs to watch for, and the modern treatments available today, especially for patients in Bihar seeking safe, affordable, and effective eye care.
Cataract or Motiyabind - An Overview!
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. This lens is responsible for focusing light and producing clear images. With age or certain medical conditions, this lens becomes cloudy, causing blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night.
While cataracts commonly occur in older adults, diabetes is one of the strongest risk factors that can make the lens cloudy much earlier. This is why many diabetic patients in Bihar start experiencing cataract symptoms even in their 40s or 50s, much before the usual age.
Can Diabetes Really Cause Cataracts or Motiyabind?
Yes. Diabetes can directly lead to cataract formation and can also worsen existing cataracts at a faster rate. High blood sugar affects the lens in several ways:
1. Excess sugar enters the eye
High glucose levels accumulate in the lens fluid.
2. Sugar converts to sorbitol
The lens converts extra glucose into sorbitol, a compound that cannot exit the lens easily.
3. Sorbitol causes swelling
This buildup draws water inside the lens, changing its structure and transparency.
4. Lens becomes cloudy
Over time, the lens fibers change shape, become stiff, and eventually turn opaque—leading to cataract.
This entire process is faster in diabetics because their blood sugar levels remain high for longer periods. That’s why diabetes not only causes cataract, but also accelerates it.
Why Is Cataract Common Among Diabetic Patients in Bihar?
Many people do not realize they have high blood sugar until complications arise, and irregular monitoring—such as skipping routine HbA1c tests—allows diabetes to remain uncontrolled for long periods. Awareness about diabetic eye diseases is also low, with blurred vision often mistaken for simple “weak eyesight.” In addition, lifestyle habits like high-carbohydrate diets, minimal physical activity, and inconsistent medication further worsen the effects of diabetes on the eyes.
Delayed eye checkups are another major factor, as many individuals avoid annual retina and lens examinations until their vision becomes significantly blurred. Together, these issues increase the likelihood of early cataract development among diabetic patients across Bihar.
Cataract Symptoms in Diabetic Patients
Cataract usually develops gradually, and the early signs can be very subtle. However, in people with diabetes, cataracts tend to progress more quickly, which makes regular eye checkups even more important. Symptoms often include blurry or foggy vision, increased sensitivity to bright light or glare, difficulty seeing at night, faded or dull colors, double vision in one eye, and frequent changes in eyeglass power. If any of these symptoms appear—especially in someone living with diabetes—it is crucial to seek an eye examination without delay.
Do Diabetic Patients Get Cataracts at a Younger Age?
Yes. While age-related cataracts typically develop after 60, diabetic patients often get them between 40 and 55. In Bihar, many middle-aged patients come for cataract consultation only to discover diabetes for the first time. The link is so strong that early cataracts may sometimes be the first warning sign of undiagnosed diabetes.
How Fast Does Cataract Develop in Diabetes?
The speed varies from person to person, but in diabetics, cataracts generally mature faster because uncontrolled sugar continuously damages the lens. Poorly managed diabetes can turn a mild cataract into a visually significant one within months or a couple of years. That’s why regular follow-up with an eye specialist is essential.
Best Treatment for Cataract in Diabetic People
1. Cataract Surgery: Safe and Effective
Cataract surgery is the safest and most successful treatment of cataract in the world. For diabetics, the procedure is similar but requires extra care and precision.
During surgery:
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The cloudy natural lens is removed
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An artificial lens (IOL) is implanted to restore clear vision
The entire procedure usually takes 10–15 minutes and is painless. Modern techniques like phacoemulsification cataract surgery offer faster recovery and improved visual outcomes.
2. Retina Screening Before and After Surgery
For diabetic patients, retina evaluation is extremely important before cataract surgery. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy or macular edema must be identified in advance.
After surgery, continued retina checkups ensure that the eyes stay healthy and stable.
3. Blood Sugar Control Before Surgery
Patients must maintain stable blood sugar levels (HbA1c ideally below 7–8%) before undergoing surgery. Well-managed sugar levels reduce healing time and prevent postoperative complications.
Is Cataract Surgery Risky for Diabetic Patients?
With modern technology, cataract surgery is safe for diabetics. However, risks are slightly higher if diabetes is poorly controlled or if untreated diabetic retinopathy is present. This is why timing, proper evaluation, and follow-up care make a big difference.
Most diabetic patients in Bihar recover excellently after cataract surgery when they follow their doctor’s advice and maintain stable sugar levels.
How Can Diabetics in Bihar Reduce Their Cataract Risk?
While cataract cannot always be prevented, diabetics can delay or slow its progression with healthy habits:
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Maintain blood sugar near the target range
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Get annual eye checkups
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Control blood pressure and cholesterol
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Eat a balanced diet, reduce sugar and refined carbs
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Quit smoking and tobacco
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Stay physically active
These steps help protect the lens and reduce the risk of early cataract formation.
Conclusion:
To answer the main question—yes, diabetes can cause cataracts, and it can happen earlier and progress faster compared to non-diabetic individuals. But the good news is that cataracts are easily treatable with quick, safe surgery. The key is early detection, good diabetes control, and regular eye checkups.
For diabetic patients in Bihar, understanding this connection is essential. By managing your sugar levels and consulting an eye specialist regularly, you can protect your eyesight and enjoy a clear, healthy vision for years to come.
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