Cataract

What is a Cataract (Motia-Bind/Safed Motia)?

Cataracts are caused when the protein in the lens clumps together, forming a cloudy area that can grow and impair vision. The exact cause of cataracts is still unknown, but researchers have identified some potential factors, such as aging, smoking, diabetes, and a lack of certain vitamins and minerals. Exposure to UV light is also believed to play a role in the development of cataracts.

The lens is primarily composed of water and protein, with the protein arranged to allow light to pass through and focus on the retina. As the protein begins to clump together, it can cloud a small area of the lens and eventually progress to cover more of the lens, leading to vision difficulties.

Causes of Cataract

In younger people, cataract can occur due to various reasons, including eye diseases such as uveitis, general diseases like diabetes, heredity, injury, radiation, infections, and more. In older people, cataract may be a result of the natural aging process.

Cataract Symptoms

The common symptoms of cataract include cloudy or blurred vision, problems with light such as glare or halo around lights, faded colors, double or multiple vision, and frequent changes in eyeglasses or contact lenses. These symptoms may also indicate other eye problems, so it is important to consult an eye surgeon if any of these occur. In early stages, cataracts may not cause any noticeable changes in vision. Vision typically worsens gradually as the cataract grows, although some people may experience temporary improvement in near vision before it worsens again.

Types of Cataract

Amar Jain Hospital explains that cataracts can be classified into four types, including:

• Age-Related Cataract: This is the most common type of cataract and occurs due to aging.
• Congenital Cataract: Some babies may be born with cataracts, or they may develop in childhood, which may need to be removed if they affect vision.
• Secondary Cataract: Cataracts can develop in people with certain health problems, such as diabetes, or those who use steroids.
• Traumatic Cataract: Cataracts can develop soon after an eye injury or even years later.

Cataract Diagnosis

Amar Jain Hospital explains that cataracts may be caused by several factors such as age, genetics, eye diseases, injuries, and certain health conditions like diabetes or steroid use. Treatment is usually surgical and may include procedures such as Phacoemulsification with foldable IOL, Small Incision Cataract Surgery with IOL Implantation, or Conventional Surgery (ECCE). In some cases, early or urgent surgery may be recommended based on the advice of the consulting eye surgeon.

Preparation Before Cataract Surgery

Prior to undergoing laser cataract surgery, several tests are conducted to measure the curvature and length of the eyeball using an ultrasound machine. This helps in determining the appropriate power of the intraocular lens (IOL) to be implanted. Additionally, other general fitness tests such as blood work, urine tests, ECG, and others may be performed to ensure that the patient is fit for surgery.

Cataract Surgery Procedure

The decision to have cataract surgery is usually made by the patient based on their visual needs and how much their cataract affects their daily activities. Phacoemulsification is a common surgical technique used to remove cataracts, which involves making a small incision and using sound waves to break up and remove the lens. Intra-ocular lenses (IOLs) are then implanted to replace the natural lens, providing clear vision without the need for thick glasses. Multifocal IOLs can provide clear vision at multiple distances, but may have some disadvantages. SICS is another type of cataract surgery that is faster and more comfortable than traditional surgery. The success of cataract surgery also depends on factors such as the condition of the eye, the quality of the operation theatre, and the presence of systemic diseases.

After Cataract Eye Surgery

It is important to report any unusual symptoms or discomfort after cataract surgery to the eye surgeon immediately. This is because any complication, though rare, can be serious and may require prompt treatment to avoid any potential harm to the eye. Some of the warning signs that may indicate a problem include severe pain, sudden loss of vision, increasing redness or swelling in the eye, flashes of light or sudden onset of floaters, or any unusual discharge or bleeding from the eye. The surgeon will examine the eye and may perform additional tests to diagnose and treat the problem.

Laser Cataract Surgery Preventions

It is necessary to undergo regular eye check-ups after reaching 50 years of age in order to identify any eye diseases early on and receive prompt cataract treatment if necessary. While wearing sunglasses with UV protection may help prevent exposure to UV rays, there is no evidence to support this claim. The term 'cataract' often generates anxiety, misconceptions, and fear, and this brochure is designed to dispel these myths and provide information about cataracts and modern cataract surgery methods.