What are Cataracts and how can we deal with them?
A cataract is a dense cloudy structure forming in the lens of the eye. The retina works by converting the light that comes through the lens into signals. It sends the signals to the optic nerve, which carries them to the brain.
Cataracts develop slowly and eventually interfere with the vision. There is a possibility that one might end up with cataracts in both eyes, but they usually don’t form at the same time. Cataracts are common in older people, but aren’t only limited to them. It can affect people from all age groups.
Cataracts develop when protein builds up in the lens of your eye and makes it cloudy. This keeps light from passing through clearly. It can cause you to lose some of your eyesight. The definite reason as to what exactly causes changes in eye lens with age leading to the formation of cataracts is unknown. However, there are a few possible factors like diabetes, obesity, smoking, eye injury, heavy drinking, UV light exposure, family history, etc.
There are different types of cataracts. They include:
- Age-related:These form as you get older.
- Congenital:This is what doctors call it when babies are born with cataracts. They may be caused by infection, injury, or poor development in the womb. Or, they can form in childhood.
- Secondary: These happen as a result of other medical conditions, like diabetes. They can also result from being around toxic substances, ultraviolet light, or radiation, or from taking medicines such as corticosteroids or diuretics.
- Traumatic:These form after an injury to the eye.
Signs and symptoms of cataracts include:
- Clouded, blurred or dim vision
- Increasing difficulty with vision at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Need for brighter light for reading and other activities
- Seeing "halos" around lights
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision in a single eye
If you’re unable or uninterested in surgery, your doctor may be able to help you manage your symptoms. They may suggest stronger eyeglasses, magnifying lenses, or sunglasses with an anti-glare coating.
Surgery is recommended when cataracts prevent you from going about your daily activities, such as reading or driving. It’s also performed when cataracts interfere with the treatment of other eye problems.
Surgery to remove a cataract is generally very safe and has a high success rate. Most people can go home the same day as their surgery.
- Regular eye examinations
- Quit smoking
- Manage other health problems
- Choose a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Wear sunglasses
Centurion Vision System using Active Fluidics Technology aids to make cataract surgeries less taxing by using the latest technology. Contrasting to other techniques, Centurion has the essentials to make it go easy for the patient as well as the surgeon ensuring absolute safety.
Cataracts are hence quite a common problem and with the safety assured, should be treated at the earliest.
