Cataracts are a clouding of the eye's normally clear lens, causing blurry vision and making it difficult to see details, especially at night. They occur due to protein buildup in the lens as we age.
Treatment typically involves surgery to replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one. Preventive measures such as wearing sunglasses and maintaining a healthy diet are also important.
What are cataracts
Cataracts, also known as clouding of the lens or cloudy water, are a condition that results from a gradual thickening of the eye's lens.
Symptoms of cataracts
- Blurred vision.
- Sparkling eyes in sunlight.
- Whiteness in the lens.
- Night blindness.
- Seeing halos around lights.
- Blurred vision.
- Double vision.
- Nearsightedness.
What are the causes of cataracts
Cataracts occur when protein in the lens clumps together, forming a white film that obstructs vision. They can be congenital, known as congenital cataracts, or they can result from aging or direct trauma to the eye.
Cataracts can also affect individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure, exposure to acidic or alkaline chemicals, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation, or the use of certain medications.
Treatment of Cataracts
The only treatment for cataracts is surgery, which replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens. In early stages, a doctor may prescribe stronger glasses to improve vision or special glasses to reduce glare.
Other treatment options include using eye drops, which the doctor will prescribe based on the individual case, to alleviate symptoms. It is important to consult a doctor immediately if you experience sudden pain or a change in your field of vision.
Types of Cataracts
The eye's lens consists of several different layers, and cataracts can appear in any part of the lens. Therefore, the type of cataract varies depending on the affected area. Some of these types include:
Nuclear cataracts, which affect the center of the lens, causing it to darken. This type is the most common and often appears with age.
Coarse cataracts, which begin in the cortex, the layer surrounding the center of the lens. The area around the center of the lens gradually changes color. This type often affects people with diabetes.
Posterior subcapsular cataracts, which originate in the back layer of the lens. They often cause sensitivity to light and are common in people who have taken steroid medications for a long time.
How to Prevent Cataracts
To prevent cataracts, the following is recommended:
- Quit smoking and treat any underlying conditions that may contribute to cataracts, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Have regular eye exams, especially as you get older.
- Wear sunglasses to protect against ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
- Quit smoking. Keeping blood sugar levels under control for diabetic patients.
- Following a healthy, balanced diet.
Methods of Diagnosing Cataracts
Cataracts are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, which includes the doctor instilling special eye drops to dilate the pupils.
This procedure helps determine if the vision problem is indeed caused by cataracts or by another condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cataracts be treated without surgery
Cataracts cannot be permanently cured except through surgery, which involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial one. However, they can be treated in their early stages with eyeglasses.
Are cataracts dangerous
Yes, they can be dangerous if they affect vision and the ability to perform daily activities.
Can cataracts disappear naturally
They do not disappear on their own. In some cases, they worsen, requiring immediate surgery.
Article Summary
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye's normally clear lens. This condition results from a gradual increase in the thickness of the lens, causing blurred vision and difficulty seeing, especially at night.
The likelihood of developing cataracts increases with age, particularly after 70. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes and are among the most common causes of vision loss.