Why do diabetics have eye problems?

Diabetics have eye problems due to increased blood sugar levels, which causes the eye's lens to swell up, according to WebMD. The specific eye problems that arise in diabetics include glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy.

Glaucoma occurs when the fluid in the eye doesn't drain properly, and pressure builds up. Depending on the type of glaucoma, treatments can include drops, medications, laser treatment and surgery. With cataracts, the eye's lens gets clouded over. Surgery can be done to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when blood vessels in the retina are damaged. This condition can be treated with laser procedures and surgery.