An eye cataract forms when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, making it harder to see clearly. The lens, which is normally clear, helps focus light on the retina to produce sharp vision. When it becomes cloudy, it can cause cataract symptoms like blurry vision, glare, and trouble with night driving. Although common in older adults, eye cataracts can also be caused by injuries, medical conditions, or prolonged UV exposure. Cataracts progress slowly but can be effectively treated with modern surgical techniques.
Cataract symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of the cataract. Common cataract signs and symptoms in the eye include:
There are several causes of cataract, with aging being the most common. Other factors that lead to the formation of cataracts include:
There are 6 types of cataract commonly observed, each with its distinct characteristics:
Cortical cataracts form in the outer edges of the lens and gradually extend toward the center, causing vision issues like glare and halos.
An intumescent cataract involves the swelling of the lens due to fluid buildup, which often leads to sudden and severe vision loss if untreated.
Nuclear cataracts affect the central part of the lens and are common with aging. They can cause blurry vision and make distant objects hard to see.
This type forms at the back of the lens and progresses quickly, leading to glare and difficulty with tasks like reading. It is often linked to diabetes and steroid use.
Rosette cataracts usually develop after an eye injury, creating a star-like pattern in the lens.
A traumatic cataract results from an eye injury and can appear immediately or years after the trauma, affecting the clarity of vision.
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The risk of developing cataracts increases due to several factors. Common cataract risk factors include:
While not all cases of cataracts can be prevented, adopting healthy habits can help delay their onset. Here’s how you can reduce your risk of developing eye cataract symptoms:
To ensure proper healing after cataract surgery, follow these tips:
Wear Protective Eyewear: Use goggles or wraparound glasses to protect your eyes from dust and sunlight during waking hours.
Use Prescribed Eye Drops: Follow the schedule recommended by your doctor to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Avoid Touching or Rubbing Your Eyes: This prevents irritation or the risk of infection.
Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy lifting or exercise for the first few weeks.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups ensure the eye is healing properly.
Most patients experience improved vision within a week, with full recovery in 4-6 weeks.
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Before we jump to cure for cataract or motiyabind treatment, let us first understand the basic definition of cataract. In simple words, clouding of usually clear lens of the eye is known as cataract. Even though surgery is the only solution to treat cataract, a person may not need it right away. Below we have mentioned some of the many ways to treat eye cataract:
One of the biggest reasons or causes of cataract is injury or aging. In both the cases, there is a change in the tissue that forms the cataract in lens of the eye. Fibers and protein in the lens start to break down leading to cloudy or hazy vision.
Genetic or inherent disorders can also increase the risk of developing cataract. In addition, many other eye conditions can also cause eye cataract like diabetes, past eye surgeries, use of steroids or harsh medications.
It is best to treat eye cataract at early stages or it will get worse with time, affecting the person’s vision. However, if a person decides to wait for too long, there is a high chance that the cataract can become hyper-mature.
This makes the cataract more stubborn and difficult to remove, causing complications in surgery. Therefore, the moment you spot signs of cataract, get in touch with an ophthalmologist to undergo the surgery which is safe and effective.
Primarily, eye cataract can be divided into three types namely, posterior subcapsular cataracts, cortical cataracts, and nuclear sclerotic cataracts. To get a more detailed and comprehensive insight, let’s delve into them one by one:
This is the most common type of cataract that begins with a gradual hardening and yellowing of the primary zone which is also referred to as the nucleus. In nuclear sclerotic cataract, the eye’s ability to focus on close-up vision may improve for a brief period of time but not permanently.
This type of cataract forms in the cortex and slowly extends from the outside to the centre of the lens. In some cases, when the light enters the eye, it scatters leading to glare, blurred vision, depth reception, and more. Also, when it comes to cortical cataract, diabetic patients are at a higher risk of developing it.
This type of cataract affects an individual’s night vision and reading. It begins as a small cloudy area on the back surface or posterior of the lens. Additionally, since it forms below the lens capsule it is referred to as a subcapsular cataract.
Eye Cataract surgeries are outpatient procedures where a surgeon skilfully removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clean, artificial lens or IOL. However, when it comes to choosing these artificial lenses, the patient can choose from a diverse range of options according to their requirement, comfort, and convenience.
The cost of eye cataract surgery depends on your health insurance coverage plan and lens option that you choose. Usually, eye cataract surgery is covered in most plans, however, some lens options may be an additional expense that you will have to pay.
To get a better insight into the total cost or cataract surgery, we suggest you get in touch with us via phone or email to book your appointment at the earliest.
Cataracts can develop in one or both eyes; however, they don’t necessarily affect both eyes at the same time. Cataracts eventually develop in both eyes, but initially, they can affect only one eye, and the progression can vary between eyes.
Yes. Eating foods that contain healthy vitamins C and E and lutein, zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of cataract progression naturally.
Cataracts are diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam that includes a visual acuity test, a slit lamp exam and potentially a dilated exam. The eye doctor will assess your vision, examine the lens for cloudiness and evaluate any other symptoms you might be experiencing.
The simple answer is yes; you can drive with cataracts only when confirmed by your doctor.
No, cataracts themselves cannot come back after surgery. Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one. Artificial lenses cannot develop cataracts.
Doctors recommend getting screened for cataracts around the age of 40 and with frequent screenings (every 1-2 years) around the age of 60.
This information is for general awareness only and cannot be construed as medical advice. Recovery Timelines, specialist availability, and treatment prices may vary. Please consult our specialists or visit your nearest branch for more details.Insurance coverage and associated costs may vary depending on the treatment and the specific inclusions under your policy. Please visit the insurance desk at your nearest branch for detailed information.
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