Cataracts
What are Cataracts?
Cataracts cause half of all cases of blindness and 33% of visual impairment worldwide. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye that affects vision. The lens is responsible for focusing light onto the retina at the back of the eye, which sends images to the brain.
Over time, the lens can become less transparent and cause vision problems such as blurriness, glare, double vision, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts are a common age-related condition, but they can also be caused by injury, certain medical conditions, or exposure to UV light.
The most effective treatment for cataracts is surgical removal of the cloudy lens and
replacement with an artificial lens.
Common Cataract Symptoms
The symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
- Sensitivity to light and glare, often accompanies by seeing halos around lights
- Fading or yellowing objects of colours
- Double vision in a single eye
- Frequent prescription changes for eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Reduced visual contrast and clarity
- Difficulty discerning details, such as facial features or reading small print.
Cataract Causes
Cataracts form when proteins in the eye’s lens clump together, causing cloudiness. The primary cause is aging, but several factors increase the risk. These include prolonged UV radiation exposure, diabetes, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, eye trauma, certain medications like corticosteroids, previous eye surgeries, and specific health conditions such as glaucoma. Congenital factors can also result in cataracts present at birth. Furthermore, radiation exposure, including from X-rays or cancer treatments, can accelerate their formation. Regular eye check-ups aid in early detection and timely intervention.
When to Call a Doctor
If you experience symptoms that come on suddenly, you need to consult a doctor immediately.
Book an appointment if you suspect you suffer from Cataracts
Other Eye Conditions
Glaucoma
Cataracts
Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration
Diabetic Retinopathy
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cataracts be prevented?
While you can't prevent the natural aging process, reducing UV exposure, managing health conditions, and avoiding smoking can decrease the risk
How are cataracts treated?
The primary treatment for significant cataracts is surgery, where the clouded lens is replaced with an artificial one.
Is cataract surgery safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgical procedures. However, like any surgery, there are risks involved.
How long is the recovery after cataract surgery?
Most people notice improved vision within days, but complete healing can take several weeks.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
While the cataract itself can't return, some people may experience clouding of the tissue behind the lens, called posterior capsule opacification (PCO). This can be treated with a simple laser procedure.