CATARACT

What is Cataract?

A cataract is a cloudy or opaque area in the lens of the eye. Usually, the lens is transparent. But if it becomes clouded, the passage of light is obstructed and vision may be impaired. Cataracts vary from extremely small areas of cloudiness to larger, cloudy areas which can cause a noticeable loss of vision.

What causes a cataract?

Today, the scientists still do not know exactly what causes a change in the composition of the lens when a cataract forms. But the most common form of cataract is related to aging, although some cases can also be found in younger people. Cataracts may also be associated with exposure to toxic materials and radiation, diabetes, drugs and eye injuries. People with a family history of cataracts are also at higher risk.

Symptoms

1. Cloudy or foggy vision

2. Double vision

3. Changes in the way you see colours

4. Have problems when walking or driving at night for you may find the lights too bright

5. Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription

6. Have problems with glare from lamps or the sun

Treatment

Usually, most patients with small cataracts prescribe proper lenses which can maintain good vision for a lifetime. However, if the cataract develops to the point that the lens becomes completely opaque and the daily activities are affected, the cataract may better be removed surgically which is the most common eye operation nowadays with 1.5 million performed annually.

During surgery, an incision is made in the eye that allows a computerized instrument with a long, thin probe to reach into the pupil and remove the foggy lens. Then, the opthalmologist will insert a tiny plastic lens into the eye where the cataractous lens had been. The above procedure are performed with local anesthesia. And the result? About 95 percent of the patients have improved vision.