Cataract and cataract surgery

Cataract: a comprehensive review

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, which is naturally transparent. The lens is responsible for focusing the light on the retina, which allows us to see clearly. When the lens becomes cloudy, light is scattered and less light is focused on the retina, causing blurred, hazy, and blurred vision.

What are the causes of cataracts?

The most common cause of cataracts is aging. With age, the lens tends to cloud up naturally. Other factors include:

Injury to the eye: Injury to the eye as a result of an accident, blow or surgery can lead to the development of cataracts.
Certain diseases: Certain diseases, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes, increase the risk of cataracts.
Prolonged use of steroids: Prolonged use of steroid drugs, either orally or topically in the eye, may increase the risk of cataracts.
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation: Prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun without adequate protection may increase the risk of cataracts.
Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for the development of cataracts.
Genetic factors: There may be a genetic predisposition to the development of cataracts.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

The symptoms of cataracts usually develop gradually, and you may not notice them at first. The most common symptoms include:

Blurred vision: This is the most common symptom of cataracts. You may have trouble seeing clearly, especially at night or in poor lighting conditions.
Dim color vision: Colors may appear faded or less vivid.
Glare: Strong light, such as sunlight or car headlights, may appear more dazzling than before.
Difficulty with night vision: You may have trouble seeing clearly at night.
Double vision: You may see a double image in one or both eyes.
Halos around lights: You may see halos or halos around lights.
Higher frequency of changing glasses: You may need to change your glasses or contact lenses more often than before.

How is a cataract diagnosed?

Cataract diagnosis is usually done by an eye exam at an ophthalmologist. The doctor will examine your eyes using a slit lamp and may perform additional tests, such as measuring intraocular pressure and an eye test.

How are cataracts treated?

The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery. In surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgeries in the world.

What is expected after cataract surgery?

Most people experience a significant improvement in vision after cataract surgery. Most people can return to their normal activities within a few days. It is important to follow your ophthalmologist’s instructions after surgery, and come for regular check-ups to make sure everything is progressing properly.

Cataract prevention

Cataracts cannot be completely prevented, but the risk of developing them can be reduced by: