Cataracts: Signs, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Cataracts refer to a clouding of the eye’s lens, impairing its ability to focus light effectively. This common condition is especially prevalent among older adults, with over half of individuals aged 80 or above developing it. While cataracts can affect one or both eyes, they do not spread from one eye to the other.

Initially, cataracts might not cause noticeable changes, but as they progress, vision becomes blurry or dim, colours appear faded, and routine tasks become challenging. Thankfully, advancements in cataract treatment offer effective solutions, with surgery being one of the safest and most successful options available today.

Types of Cataracts

Cataracts can develop due to various causes, and their types include:

• Age-Related Cataracts: These are the most common type, caused by the natural ageing process, leading to cloudy vision over time.
• Traumatic Cataracts: They result from eye injuries, either immediately or years after the injury.
• Secondary Cataracts: These develop after eye surgeries (like for glaucoma) or due to conditions like diabetes.
• Congenital Cataracts: Such cataracts are present at birth or develop during childhood, often due to genetic factors or prenatal infections.
• Radiation Cataracts: These are caused by prolonged exposure to radiation, typically after treatments like cancer therapy.

Cataracts Symptoms

Recognising the cataract symptoms early is crucial for timely intervention. Common symptoms include:

• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Colours appearing faded or less vibrant
• Increased sensitivity to light and glare
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Halos around lights
• Constantly needing to update your eyeglass or contact lens prescription
• Double vision in one eye (which may resolve as the cataract progresses)

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult an eye specialist. Ignoring early signs can lead to more severe vision problems.

Causes of Cataracts

The primary cause of cataracts is ageing. Over time, the proteins in the lens of your eye begin to break down and clump together, forming cloudy areas. Other contributing factors include:

• Health Conditions: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing cataracts.
• Lifestyle Choices: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can accelerate the condition.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays without proper eye protection.
• Medications: Long-term use of steroids.
• Eye Injuries or Surgeries: Trauma or prior operations on the eye can trigger cataract formation.
• Family History: Genetics play a role in increasing susceptibility.

Diagnosis and Tests

Cataracts are diagnosed through a detailed eye exam performed by an ophthalmologist. Key tests include:

1. Visual Acuity Test: Checks how clearly you can see at various distances.
2. Slit-Lamp Examination: A detailed inspection of the eye’s front structures.
3. Retinal Exam: After dilating your pupils, the doctor examines the retina and lens for cataracts.
4. Tonometry: Measures eye pressure, helping rule out other conditions like glaucoma.

Routine eye exams are essential, especially for individuals over 60, as they allow for early detection and management.

Cataracts Treatment and Management

Managing cataracts depends on their stage and the severity of symptoms. Early cataracts may be addressed through lifestyle changes and vision aids, while advanced cases require surgical intervention.

Non-Surgical Options

• Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: A new prescription may improve vision temporarily.
• Improved Lighting: Brighter lights at home or work can help alleviate some difficulties.
• Anti-Glare Sunglasses: Reduce discomfort caused by bright lights or glares.

Surgical Options

When cataracts significantly impair daily activities, surgery becomes necessary. During cataract treatment, the clouded lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Surgical methods include:

1. Phacoemulsification: A small incision is made, and ultrasonic energy is used to break up and remove the cataract. The IOL is then implanted.
2. Laser-Assisted Surgery: Uses advanced lasers for more precise incisions and lens removal.

Both techniques are highly safe, and most of the patients experience improved vision post-surgery.

When to See a Doctor?

If you notice persistent symptoms like blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, or halos around lights, consult an ophthalmologist. Delaying treatment can worsen vision problems and lead to complications. Seek medical attention promptly if:

• Vision impairment interferes with daily tasks.
• Glasses or contact lenses no longer help.
• Symptoms like eye pain or sudden vision loss occur.

For those in Bangalore, you can visit your nearest SPARSH Hospital to meet renowned eye specialists in Bangalore. Our hospital is known as one of the best ophthalmology hospitals in Bangalore where you can expect accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Conclusion

Cataracts are a common yet manageable eye condition that can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated. Understanding cataract signs, symptoms, and treatment options is key to preserving your vision. Regular eye exams, lifestyle changes, and timely medical intervention can prevent complications and restore clarity to your vision.

FAQs

What is the first line of treatment for cataracts?

In the early stages, cataracts don’t always require surgery. For many people, vision changes can be managed with prescription glasses, improved lighting at home or work, and anti-glare sunglasses. These adjustments help improve vision and make daily tasks more comfortable.

What is the best treatment for early cataracts?

For early cataracts, the best approach often involves lifestyle changes such as wearing the right glasses or contacts and ensuring your environment has adequate lighting. Your eye doctor may also suggest corrective lenses like magnifying glasses or a new prescription to help manage the symptoms. Surgery is generally only recommended if these measures no longer help.

What is the safest way to remove cataracts?

The safest and most common method for cataract removal is phacoemulsification. This involves using ultrasound to break up the cloudy lens, which is then gently removed and replaced with a clear, artificial lens. It’s a very effective and minimally invasive procedure with a high success rate.

Which is better, cataract surgery or laser?

Both traditional cataract surgery and laser-assisted surgery are highly effective, but laser surgery tends to offer more precision, especially in complex cases. Laser technology helps make the process more controlled, and it may offer benefits like reduced recovery time. Your doctor will assess your specific situation to decide the best approach for you.