Cataracts

Cataracts are a common eye condition characterized by the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision and, if untreated, potential blindness. Affecting millions worldwide, cataracts are a significant cause of vision loss, especially among older adults. Understanding their symptoms, causes, and treatments is crucial for maintaining eye health and quality of life.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract develops when proteins in the eye’s lens clump together, forming a cloudy area that blocks or scatters light. The lens, located behind the iris, is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. When cataracts form, they impair this process, resulting in diminished vision clarity.

Types of Cataracts

Nuclear Cataracts
- Affect the central zone of the lens.
- Commonly associated with aging.
Cortical Cataracts
- Develop on the lens’s outer edges.
- Cause streaks or wedge-shaped opacities.
Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts
- Form near the back of the lens.
- Progress quickly and often impair reading vision.
Congenital Cataracts
- Present at birth or develop in childhood.
- Often linked to genetic conditions or infections during pregnancy.
Traumatic Cataracts
- Result from eye injuries.
Secondary Cataracts
- Develop due to other health conditions, such as diabetes or steroid use.

Symptoms of Cataracts

Blurry or Clouded Vision
Gradual blurring of vision, resembling a foggy window.
Light Sensitivity
Increased glare from headlights or sunlight.
Halos Around Lights
Difficulty seeing clearly at night due to halos.
Color Distortion
Colors appear faded or yellowish.
Frequent Prescription Changes
Needing stronger glasses or contacts over a short time.

Causes of Cataracts

Aging
Most cataracts are age-related due to lens proteins breaking down.
Genetics
Family history can increase risk.
Eye Injuries
Trauma can damage the lens, triggering cataracts.
UV Radiation
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can contribute.
Medications
Long-term use of steroids is a notable cause.
Diseases
Diabetes and hypertension can accelerate cataract formation.

How Cataracts Are Diagnosed

Visual Acuity Test
Measures sharpness of vision.
Slit-Lamp Examination
Provides a magnified view of the eye.
Retinal Examination
Detects cataracts and other eye conditions.

Treatment of Cataract Surgery

Phacoemulsification
- A common technique using ultrasound waves to break the lens.
Extracapsular Surgery
- Removes the lens in one piece.
Laser-Assisted Surgery
- Provides precision and faster recovery.
Vitrectomy
- This surgical procedure removes scar tissue, blood clots, and cloudy vitreous fluid to restore vision in advanced cases.