Understanding Cataract: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

A regular eye lens is normally clear, allowing light to pass from the front right to the back, creating an image for your brain to process. When the lens becomes cloudy and light cannot pass through, this causes blurred vision. This type of cloudiness is called a cataract.

Cataracts Causes

Cataracts are primarily caused by the natural aging process of your eyes. As you age, the proteins in your eye’s lens start to break down and clump together, forming a cloudy area known as a cataract. This usually begins around age 40 and progresses over time, leading to increased cloudiness and blurred vision.

Most cataracts develop gradually and typically affect people later in life, often interfering with everyday activities like reading, watching TV, or driving. While cataracts are a natural part of ageing and cannot be prevented with medication, procedures are available to effectively remove them.

Types of Cataracts

There are three main types of cataracts. Each type affects vision in different ways, but all can lead to blurred or impaired vision over time.

• Cortical cataract - an opaque area on the outer edge of the lens.
• Nuclear cataract - clouding in the centre of the lens.
• Subcapsular cataract - an opaque area towards the back of the lens.

Cataracts Symptoms

In the early stages, cataracts may not cause noticeable symptoms. As they progress, cataracts can lead to several changes in your vision, including:

• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Faded colours
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Lights, such as lamps or headlights, appear too bright
• Halos around lights
• Double vision (which may go away as the cataract grows)
• Frequent changes in your glasses or contact lens prescription

Treatment Options for Cataracts

The only permanent treatment for cataracts is surgery, but it may not be necessary right away. In the early stages, there are several ways to manage cataracts:

• Home treatment: Simple adjustments can help, such as using brighter lights at home or work, wearing anti-glare sunglasses, and using magnifying lenses for reading or other close-up activities.
• New glasses or contacts: A new prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses can improve vision in the early stages of cataracts.
• Surgery: If cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or watching TV, cataract surgery may be recommended. During this procedure, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with a new artificial lens (an intraocular lens, or IOL). 

When Is Surgery Recommended

Deciding whether to undergo cataract surgery is a personal choice. Cataracts worsen gradually over time, and surgery is the only proven method to replace the cloudy lens and improve vision.

Cataract surgery is generally recommended when cataracts significantly affect your vision and quality of life. However, the decision should not be based solely on eye test results or visual acuity. Personal factors, such as your daily activities, hobbies, or interests, may influence your decision. Some people choose to delay surgery and instead monitor their cataracts with regular check-ups. It is essential to consider your vision needs and lifestyle before deciding.

For cataracts in both eyes, the surgeon may suggest treating both eyes on the same day, a procedure called Immediate Sequential Bilateral Cataract Surgery (ISBCS). This option is typically recommended for patients with a low risk of complications and will be discussed with you in detail by your surgeon. If treated separately, surgeries are usually scheduled 6 to 12 weeks apart to ensure proper recovery for each eye.

Cataract Surgery Procedure: What to Expect

Cataract surgery is a quick and straightforward procedure, usually lasting 30 to 45 minutes. It’s performed as day surgery under local anaesthetic, so you can return home the same day

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in your eye to remove the cloudy lens, replacing it with a clear, artificial lens made of plastic. This minimally invasive surgery is generally well-tolerated and highly effective.

Post-Surgery: What to Expect

After surgery, you may still need glasses for specific tasks, such as reading or other close-up activities, depending on the type of lens chosen. While your new lens will greatly improve your vision, glasses may still be required for certain activities.

Preventing Cataracts: Tips for Eye Health

While cataracts cannot be fully prevented, you can take steps to protect your eyes and lower your risk:

• Shield your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes from harmful sunlight.
• Prevent eye injuries: Use protective eyewear during activities like using power tools, playing sports, or anything that poses a risk to your eyes.
• Quit smoking: Smoking increases the likelihood of developing cataracts, so quitting can benefit your eye health.
• Eat for eye health: Include fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains in your diet to support healthy vision.

Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you are experiencing cataract symptoms, consulting an eye specialist is crucial to explore your treatment options. Cataract surgery is a safe, effective way to restore clear vision and enhance your quality of life. 

At Gleneagles Hospitals, we provide advanced cataract treatments tailored to your needs. Schedule a consultation with us today at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital and take the first step toward better vision!