Cataract
Description
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that can lead to partial or complete loss of vision.
A healthy lens is transparent and is located behind the iris and pupil. It acts as a natural lens, allowing light rays to pass through and focusing them on the retina, which enables us to see clearly and sharply.
In cataracts, the lens becomes cloudy, preventing light from passing through properly and causing the image to appear blurred.
At first, the clouding affects only a small part of the eye’s lens, and a person may not immediately notice any deterioration in vision. Over time, however, the cataract progresses, covering an increasingly larger part of the lens.
In the advanced stages of the disease, the clouding of the lens becomes so extensive that the lens turns completely white and becomes almost impermeable to light.
Cataracts usually develop in both eyes, but not always at the same rate. As a result, vision may differ between the eyes, with one eye seeing worse than the other.
Symptoms
Cloudy or blurred vision: the main symptom of cataracts is a progressive decrease in visual acuity.
Sensitivity to light: bright light may seem dazzling or cause discomfort, especially at night.
Reduced night vision: difficulty distinguishing objects in low-light conditions.
Halos around light sources: halos or glare may appear around lights.
Double vision: images may appear doubled in one or both eyes.
Changes in color perception: colors may appear less vivid or faded.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Age-related degeneration of the visual system
Age is the main cause of cataracts. As we get older, changes occur in the eyes: the lens becomes less flexible, less transparent, and denser. The prevalence of the disease among people over the age of 60 is 88.17%.
- Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus increases the risk of developing cataracts.
- Other medical conditions
Hypertension, obesity, atopic dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and retinal dystrophy may also increase the risk of developing cataracts.
- Eye injuries or inflammation
Previous eye injuries or inflammatory conditions can lead to cataract formation.
- Pre-existing eye diseases
High myopia, or severe nearsightedness, and glaucoma increase the risk of developing cataracts.
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
Excessive or prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun may increase the risk of cataract development.
- Smoking
Smoking is a risk factor for cataract development.
- Use of certain medications
Long-term use of certain corticosteroids may increase the risk of developing cataracts.
- Genetic predisposition
In some cases, cataracts may be hereditary.
Examination and Diagnosis
- Ophthalmological examination: an ophthalmologist can diagnose a cataract during a comprehensive eye examination and assessment of the lens.
- Visual acuity testing: a vision test used to assess eyesight and the ability to see at different distances using a chart or projector.
- Tonometry: measurement of intraocular pressure.
- Biomicroscopy: using a slit-lamp microscope, an ophthalmologist can examine the cornea, iris, and lens. This method is mainly used in the diagnosis of eye conditions of traumatic or inflammatory origin.
- Ophthalmometry: used to measure the curvature of the cornea, which may assist in cataract diagnosis.
- Transillumination examination: examination in transmitted light helps determine the location and degree of lens opacity.
Treatment
You should consult an ophthalmologist as soon as you notice any changes in your vision. In the early stages, cataracts may be managed with glasses or contact lenses. However, if the cataract progresses and begins to significantly affect quality of life, surgery is required. Modern treatment methods make it possible to remove cataracts quickly and safely and fully restore vision.
Surgical intervention is the most effective treatment for cataracts. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. Cataract surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis and is considered a safe and effective procedure. Lens replacement surgery is performed using microsurgical incisions of 2.2 mm and usually takes no more than 30 minutes.
The artificial lens is fully biocompatible with human tissue. Several types of intraocular lenses are used in cataract treatment:
- Soft intraocular lenses, or IOLs
Small artificial lenses are made from special materials that do not cause a rejection reaction in the body.
- Monofocal lenses
These lenses provide high-quality distance vision but do not correct astigmatism.
- Multifocal lenses
These lenses provide high-quality vision both near and far but do not correct astigmatism.
- Toric lenses
This type of lens provides good distance vision and corrects astigmatism. High precision is essential when implanting these lenses.
Local anesthesia, usually in the form of eye drops, is used. The anesthetic is instilled into the eye so that the eye does not feel anything during the procedure. Alternatively, retrobulbar anesthesia may be used. This is a type of regional anesthesia in which an anesthetic solution is injected into the area near the ciliary ganglion.
Progression and Prognosis
There is no scientifically proven guaranteed way to prevent cataracts. However, certain measures can help reduce the risk:
- Have regular eye examinations. See an ophthalmologist for an eye check-up at least once a year, especially if you are over 60.
- Protect your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet radiation.
- Protect your eyes from injury. Follow personal hygiene rules and proper contact lens care, and use reliable eye protection when needed.
- Quit smoking. Smoking increases the risk of developing cataracts.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a risk factor for cataract development.
- Eat a healthy diet. Include foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.