Summary about Disease
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens of the eye. This lens is located behind the iris and pupil and focuses light onto the retina, enabling clear vision. Cataracts are a common age-related condition and are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. They can develop slowly over many years, and can affect one or both eyes.
Symptoms
Clouded, blurred, or dim vision
Increasing difficulty with vision at night
Sensitivity to light and glare
Seeing "halos" around lights
Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
Fading or yellowing of colors
Double vision in a single eye (rare)
Causes
Age: This is the most common cause. As people age, the proteins within the lens of the eye begin to break down and clump together, causing clouding.
Other Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and previous eye injuries or surgeries can increase the risk.
Genetic Factors: A family history of cataracts increases the likelihood of developing them.
Excessive Exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: Prolonged sun exposure without proper eye protection.
Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of cataract development.
Certain Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids (steroids).
Trauma: Eye injuries can cause cataracts to develop.
Medicine Used
There are no medications that can cure cataracts. The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery. However, in the early stages, vision may be improved with:
Stronger eyeglasses
Bifocals
Magnifying lenses
Appropriate lighting
Is Communicable
No, cataracts are not communicable. They cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
While cataracts are often age-related, certain precautions can help slow their development:
Regular Eye Exams: Early detection allows for monitoring and timely intervention.
Wear Sunglasses: Protect eyes from UV radiation with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of cataracts.
Manage Existing Health Problems: Control diabetes and other medical conditions that can contribute to cataracts.
Healthy Diet: A diet rich in antioxidants may be beneficial.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk.
How long does an outbreak last?
Cataracts do not have outbreaks. Cataracts develop gradually over time. The progression rate varies from person to person. Some cataracts develop slowly over many years, while others progress more rapidly.
How is it diagnosed?
Cataracts are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, which typically includes:
Visual Acuity Test: Measures how well you see at various distances.
Slit-Lamp Examination: Allows the doctor to examine the structures of the eye under high magnification, including the lens.
Retinal Examination: After dilating the pupils, the doctor examines the retina and optic nerve.
Applanation Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure).
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of cataract symptoms is gradual and varies greatly from person to person.
Early Stages: Mild blurring of vision, increased glare sensitivity. May be correctable with new glasses.
Mid Stages: Vision becomes noticeably cloudier, impacting daily activities such as reading and driving, especially at night. Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription may be needed.
Late Stages: Significant visual impairment, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. Colors may appear faded or yellowed.
Important Considerations
Surgery is the only effective treatment. The timing of surgery depends on how much the cataract is affecting your vision and daily life.
Cataract surgery is generally safe and effective.
Discuss your visual needs and expectations with your ophthalmologist to determine the best type of intraocular lens (IOL) for your surgery. Different IOLs can correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Post-operative care is crucial for optimal healing and vision recovery.