Cataracts and the Quality of Life
Cataract is the clouding of the lens in the eyes. The eye’s lens is usually clear and helps focus light rays onto the retina. It is composed of proteins that are normally arranged clearly and organised. However, in cataracts, these proteins start to break down and clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy. This cloudiness prevents light from passing through the lens properly, leading to blurry or impaired vision.
Cataract is a common ophthalmic condition, and it is a leading cause of blindness globally, affecting about 24-30 million people. Cataracts, especially in old age, affect vision significantly and make it difficult to perform daily activities like watching movies, reading, driving, and recognising people’s faces.
Risk factors
The following are significant risk factors:
- Aging: Aging is the most common cause of cataracts. Cataracts typically develop slowly over time and may not significantly affect vision at first. Most people start to notice cataract symptoms in their 60s or 70s, but signs can begin earlier, especially in those with a family history or other risk factors. By the age of 80, more than half of people will have cataracts to some degree. The process is gradual, and the severity of symptoms varies with many people.
- Another factor can also affect its progression.
- Genetics: Family history
- Injury: Eye injuries can lead to cataract formation.
- Diabetes: High blood glucose level.
- Prolonged UV Exposure: Extended exposure to sunlight.
- Smoking
- Medications (Long-term use of steroids)
- Other eye conditions like glaucoma can increase the risk.
Symptoms of cataract
Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Blurred or decreased vision
- Difficulty seeing in dim light areas or at night
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Faded colours
- Double vision
Treatment options
Cataracts are treatable, and various treatment options are available. We will discuss them as non-surgical and surgical. The treatment for cataracts depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on daily activities.
Non-surgical treatment: prescription aids
In the early stages of cataracts, you may feel decreased vision and contrast changes that can be corrected using prescription glasses or contact lenses. In severe vision loss, low vision aids, such as magnifiers or special lighting, can also assist with reading or close-up tasks. These solutions manage symptoms but do not halt the progression of cataracts.
When to opt for this approach: Prescription aids are suitable when cataracts are early and do not significantly impair daily functions.
Surgical treatment: cataract surgery
Surgical treatment is the only permanent solution for cataracts. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. This surgery is typically quick, safe, and offers rapid improvement in vision.
Surgery is recommended when cataracts begin to interfere with activities such as driving, reading, or watching TV or when other treatments no longer provide sufficient relief.
Living with cataracts before surgery
If you are not yet ready for cataract surgery, you can manage the condition through lifestyle adjustments and vision aids. These steps can significantly improve daily life and help maintain independence. Here are some strategies:
- Using stronger lighting can reduce the impact of decreased contrast, especially when reading or doing close-up tasks.
- Magnifying aids or handheld magnifiers can help with reading.
- Anti-glare lenses are specialised lenses that reduce glare from headlights, sunlight, or indoor lighting.
- Adjust your environment. A well-lit home helps you perform daily tasks safely.
- Frequent eye check-ups with an eye doctor can help monitor the cataract’s progression and manage any vision changes.
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet, quit smoking, manage and control your diabetes, and limit alcohol consumption.
LumiLab guides, webpages, and articles discussing optometry and ophthalmology are intended only for educational and informative purposes and do not serve as medical or professional advice.
The information presented, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material, is for informational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician, optician, or other health care professional if you have questions about your eye health or vision.
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