CATARACT AWARENESS TODAY

Ever wonder what is a cataract?

Difference between normal eye and eye having cataract

One of the leading causes of blindness in the world is “Cataract” which is defined as clouding of the normally clear crystalline lens of the eye which obstructs the light transmission through the lens to the retina of the eye. Cataract can affect infants, adults, and older people, but it is most commonly seen among older age-group.

Causes and Risk Factors of Cataract:

• Diabetes mellitus

• Smoking

• Alcohol

• Drugs

• Ultraviolet radiation

• Nutritional deficiency

Basic Types of Cataract

Symptoms: 

• Blurring of vision 

• Double vision or diplopia 

• Coloured halos around the light 

• Sensitivity to glare 

• Increased frequency of change in spectacle prescription 

• Disturbance in colour vision

Indications of Cataract Surgery

Treatment

There are currently only 2 treatment options which include spectacle correction of the refractive error (only at earlier stages), and surgery is advised in later stages if cataract hampers daily routine activities.

Prevention

There are no unique approaches to prevent occurrence of cataract but simple measures can be taken to avoid early lens changes which include:

• Maintenance of healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercises.

• Excessive sunlight exposure can be reduced with help of UV-blocking lenses.

• Reduction or complete stop in alcohol consumption and smoking.

• Intake of more green leafy vegetables along with increased intake of nutritional supplements like vitamins.

Reference:

1. Nizami AA, Gurnani B, Gulani AC. Cataract. [Updated 2024 Feb 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539699/

2. https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts/types-cataract

3. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/cataract?sso=y