Cataract

Cataract is a condition characterized by the clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. Most cataracts are related to aging, and they are very common in older people. A cataract can occur in either or both eyes, but it cannot spread from one eye to the other.

Cataract in human eye

Causes

The primary cause of cataracts is the age-related degeneration of the proteins within the lens of the eye, leading to the clouding of the lens. Other factors that may contribute to the development of cataracts include:

Cataract

• Diabetes
• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
• Previous eye surgery or injuries
• Family history of cataracts
• Other medical conditions, such as hypertension or obesity

Symptoms

Cataract symptoms typically develop gradually and worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

• Blurred or hazy vision
• Increased sensitivity to glare and bright lights
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Double vision in one eye
• Fading or yellowing of colors
• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription

Diagnosis

A comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist is necessary to diagnose cataracts. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Visual acuity test: This test measures how well a patient can see at various distances.
• Slit-lamp examination: A slit lamp uses a high-intensity light source and a microscope to examine the structures at the front of the eye, including the lens.
• Retinal examination: After dilating the pupils with eye drops, the doctor uses a special instrument to examine the retina and optic nerve at the back of the eye.

Treatment

The treatment for cataracts depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on the patient's daily activities. Early-stage cataracts may be managed with non-surgical interventions, such as:

• Updating eyeglass or contact lens prescription
• Using magnifying lenses for reading or other close-up work
• Wearing sunglasses to reduce glare

When cataracts significantly impair vision and interfere with daily activities, cataract surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is generally safe and effective, with a high success rate in improving vision.

Prevention

While cataracts cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes and precautions may help reduce the risk of developing them:

• Protecting the eyes from UV radiation by wearing sunglasses with UV protection
• Managing chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension
• Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, including fruits and vegetables
• Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
• Having regular eye examinations to monitor eye health and detect cataracts early

External links

• American Academy of Ophthalmology: What Are Cataracts?
• National Eye Institute: Cataracts

Topics in Ophthalmology

• Macular degeneration (AMD)
• Amblyopia
• Anophthalmia and * Microphthalmia
• Astigmatism
• Blepharitis
• Cataract
• Color blindness
• Cornea and Corneal disease
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Dry eye
• Floaters
• Glaucoma
• Hyperopia
• Intracranial hypertension
• Low vision
• Macular edema
• Myopia
• Pink Eye or Conjunctivitis
• Presbyopia
• Refractive errors
• Retinal detachment
• Retinitis pigmentosa
• Retinoblastoma
• Retinopathy of prematurity
• Uveitis
• Vitreous detachment

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