Typically, pressure in the eye causes fluid to build up in the chamber that is farther back in the eye. The pressure also pinches the nourishing blood vessels, causing retina and nerve damage. Glaucoma, if untreated, causes blindness. Cataracts As with glaucoma, people who have diabetes are twice as likely to develop cataracts as those who don't. And those with diabetes tend to get cataracts earlier in life.
Cataracts cause the eye's clear lens to become cloudy, blocking light.
Retinopathy Diabetes increases the risk for disorders of the retina. Retinopathy is a general term for these problems, such as Damage to capillary walls, which can cause the retina to swell. Swelling in the center of the retina, called macular edema. Damage to blood vessels, leading to the growth of new, weaker blood vessels that can leak blood, block vision and cause scar tissue growth. Damage caused by scar tissue, which can cause a condition known as detached retina.