In the normal eye the lens inside is clear and transparent, but when cataract develops it becomes cloudy and opaque. So the light is not focused on the retina through lens which leads to blurring of vision.
Cataract can be developed with age (Senile Cataract)
It can be due to injury to the eye (Traumatic Cataract)
Child can be born with cataract (Congenital Cataract)
X-ray & other radiation (UV light) can cause cataract (Radiation Cataract)
Exposure to sunlight, Diabetes and Heredity are also factors for the Cataract development.
As mentioned, it is related. Blurred vision worsens with time. Some complains about dimness in eye and brightness in the other eye. Printed images may seem distorted. Glaring effect may be experienced. However, Cataract never causes pain, itching or redness.
No, till date no preventive measure is found for the Cataract. It is an age related changes. No drugs, diets or medicine can delay or cure the Cataract. However, Wearing a sunglass that blocks the UV rays can slow down the process of development of Cataract.
As mentioned, it is related. Blurred vision worsens with time. Some complains about dimness in eye and brightness in the other eye. Printed images may seem distorted. Glaring effect may be experienced. However, Cataract never causes pain, itching or redness.
No, till date no preventive measure is found for the Cataract. It is an age related changes. No drugs, diets or medicine can delay or cure the Cataract. However, Wearing a sunglass that blocks the UV rays can slow down the process of development of Cataract.
Surgery is the only way to remove the Cataract.
Under an operating microscope and with Phaco-emulsification machine a small cut is made in the eye and cloudy lens is removed and plastic Intra-ocular Lens is placed in place of natural lens.
Over 95% of Cataract surgery will improve the vision. While pre-existing associated condition like glaucoma, diabetes, retinal condition etc may limit the vision even after surgery. Yet, Cataract surgery may still be worthwhile and necessary.
Under ordinary circumstances cataract surgery is not an emergency situation except few rare instances. Therefore in most of the cases the choice of undergoing surgery largely depends upon patients. In the past, surgeons usually waited till the time Cataract becomes mature or ripe, but modern technique an advances have now made possible to perform Cataract removal at early stage. When it interferes with your day to day work, it is time for surgery. However, it is advisable to have cataract operated early before it becomes hard. An Ophthalmologist can give proper guidance.
In recent time, two techniques are widely performed like;
ECCE ( Extra Capsular Cataract Extraction) : It is safe and perform under the operating microscope where the posterior (back membrane) of Cataract is kept inside purposefully to support the IOL (Intra Ocular Lens). The big incision of around 8-10 mm is sutured with very thin thread.
PE (Phaco Emulsification) : It is the latest technique which is performed by computerized machine. Since incision is very small of 2.85 mm, no sutures are required and rehabilitation of the patient is quick and fast.
