What are cataracts?
A cataract refers to a clouding of the lens in the eye that has an effect on one’s vision. Cataracts are common in senior population. By the age of 80, more than 50% of people in the United States either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery.
(https://wikr.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/cataract_body-1.jpg)
Apart from old age, cataracts can also develop:
- after a trauma of the eye;
- as a result of exposure to harmful substances or too much UV light;
- as a result of certain medical conditions such as diabetes;
- because of prolonged use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and diuretics.
Some people are born with cataracts or develop them in childhood.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
As a cataract grows, the following symptoms start appearing:
- cloudy, blurry, or foggy vision;
- double vision;
- trouble seeing at night;
- double vision in the affected eye;
- distorted perception of colors such as seeing bright colors as faded or yellow;
- increased sensitivity to light;
- eyeglasses or lenses don’t help a person see better.
Symptoms described above are not exclusive to cataracts and may be a sign of different eye problems. One should see their eye care professional if they have any new vision problems.
(https://wikr.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/cataract_1.jpg)
What are the factors that increase the risk of cataracts?
Factors include:
- old age;
- family history of eye problems;
- certain health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity;
- smoking and heavy drinking;
- excessive exposure to sunlight;
- prolonged use of corticosteroids and other drugs.
How are cataracts treated?
If you have a cataract and it causes significant vision problems, your doctor will recommend a surgery. This procedure involves removing the affected lens and putting an artificial one in its place. It’s one of the most common surgical procedures in the US. It is also safe and effective; more than 95% of people who underwent this surgery say that it improved their vision.
(https://wikr.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/cataract_3.jpg)
Is there a way to prevent cataracts?
There is no known way to prevent cataracts, but you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing them.
And remember that healthy adults should have eye exams at least once every two years before age 50 and have them annually after turning 50. If you have a condition that makes you more likely to develop cataracts, follow your doctor’s recommendations to manage it properly.