Cataract

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What is a cataract?

A cataract occurs when the crystalline (the natural lens of the eye that is found behind the pupil) loses its transparency.

We can compare the crystalline with the lens of a camera that serves to focus on an object. When the crystalline becomes opaque, rays of light cannot appropriately reach the retina, and it looks like we are seeing the world around us through a dirty glass. If the problem develops, a cataract can cause reversible blindness.

The most typical are cataracts due to age. As a cataract begins to develop, it is subtle and unnoticeable. As the cataract develops over time, it will lead to greater vision loss and limit daily activities.

What are the symptoms of a cataract?

  • brightness_1  Blurry vision that progressively worsens
  • brightness_1  Frequently changing prescription for nearsightedness
  • brightness_1  Double vision with uncomfortable glare
  • brightness_1  Faded or washed out colors and contrasts
  • brightness_1  When a cataract is more advanced, the pupil can appear grey or slightly white

Clear lens in a young patient

Cataract due to age

Intumescent Cataract in a diabetic patient

How can I know if I have a cataract?

A comprehensive eye exam with an Opthalmologist is needed to diagnose a cataract. It is important to visit your eye doctor if you notice any changes in your vision.

In the early stages of a cataract, your vision may improve by using prescription glasses. However, the only treatment option for an advanced cataract is surgery

Risk factors for developing a cataract:

  • brightness_1  Age
  • brightness_1  Ocular trauma
  • brightness_1  Diabetes
  • brightness_1  Inflammation within the eye
  • brightness_1  Consuming alcohol
  • brightness_1  Smoking
  • brightness_1  Exposure to UV light
  • brightness_1  Taking certain medications like steroids or antipsychotics

Normal vision

Cataract vision

CATARACT SURGERY IS THE MOST PERFORMED SURGERY IN THE WORLD AND HAS ONE OF THE HIGHEST SUCCESS RATES

What is the treatment for a cataract?

When the crystalline becomes opaque (which is a cataract), it is not possible to clean it. The only treatment is to surgically remove it using laser and/or ultrasound, and replace with an artificial lens that stays in the eye for the rest of the patient's life.

This surgery is a same-day outpatient procedure that lasts about 15 minutes and is performed with local anesthesia and eye drops. Usually, the surgery is performed on one eye and later on the other. After cataract surgery, the patient should rest for 24 hours. During these 24 hours, the patient can do many normal daily activities (like eat, bathe, watch television, and sleep) but it is important that the patient avoid rubbing their eye or lifting heaving objects.

After

cataract

surgery, you will be pleasantly surprised with your new vision including seeing brighter colors and more details.

Intraocular Lens After Cataract Surgery

There is no age limit for cataract surgery. Surgery is suggested when you notice that the cataract limits your ability to do daily activities.

Only regular visits with an Ophthalmologist can properly diagnose and treat a cataract.

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