Things to Know About Cataracts

What is a cataract, exactly?

The clouding of the lens of the eye is known as a cataract. Vision is affected as a result of the clouding. Cataracts may affect one or both eyes, but they do not spread from one to the other. The majority of cataracts are caused by aging, and they are most common in the elderly. Cataracts cause gradual vision loss if left untreated, which can interfere with everyday tasks such as reading, using the computer, and driving.

Are there numerous kinds of cataracts?

Yeah, indeed. Other forms of cataracts occur, despite the fact that most cataracts are caused by aging. They are as follows:

Radiation cataracts are cataracts that form as a result of exposure to certain forms of radiation.

What are the causes of cataracts?

When protein in the eye's lens clumps together and forms a cloud, it's called a cataract. Water and protein make up the rest of the lens. The protein in normal eyes is structured in such a way that it keeps the lens clear and allows light to pass through.

What are the causes that place you at risk for cataracts?

The following are some of the risk factors:

Age – While the risk of cataract increases with age, a person does not have to be elderly to develop one.

Certain illnesses, such as diabetes, are caused by lifestyle habits, such as smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages.

Factors in the climate, such as excessive sun exposure

What can I do to lower my cataract risk?

According to Dr. Rohit Varma, M.D; you will lower the risk by doing a few things. You can do the following:

Wear sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes from the sun's ultraviolet rays. This may help to postpone the onset of cataracts.

If you smoke, you can quit.

Consume a balanced diet – Evidence indicates that a healthy diet will help reduce the risk of age-related cataracts. Consume a diet rich in antioxidant-rich green leafy vegetables, berries, and other foods.

What are the signs and symptoms of cataract surgery?

The following are the most common cataract symptoms:

Vision that is cloudy or blurry.

The colors tend to be faded.

Glare - It's likely that headlights, candles, or sunlight are too bright. It's likely that lights would appear with a halo around them.

Vision issues at night.

The symptom of double vision, or seeing multiple images in one eye, can fade as the cataract grows larger.

Changes in eyeglasses or contacts on a daily basis prescription – A person with cataracts may need a new prescription every few months or more.

How do you know if you have a cataract?

A thorough eye exam can diagnose a cataract. This analysis can include the following:

Visual acuity test – An eye chart is used to calculate how far you see at different distances.

Dilated eye check – During this examination, the eye doctor uses drops to dilate or enlarge the pupils. He or she will then inspect the retina and optic nerve with a special magnifying lens for signs of injury and other eye problems. Your close-up vision can be distorted for several hours after the test.

Tonometry is a test that uses a method to determine the pressure inside the eye. For this exam, your doctor will put numbing drops in your eye.

What is the protocol for treating a cataract?

The harm caused by cataracts cannot be reversed, but there are some options for treating the symptoms, including:

Prescriptions for new eyeglasses

Brighter lighting

Sunglasses with anti-glare coating

Optical magnifying lenses

What are the various kinds of cataract surgeries?

Dr. Rohit Varma explained Cataract surgery is classified into two forms. Your doctor will clarify the variations and assist you in deciding which is the best choice for you. They are as follows:

Phacoemulsification (or "phaco") – The doctor makes a slight incision on the side of the cornea for this operation.

The femtosecond laser-assisted cataract device is a newer technology that can assist in the removal of cataracts (FLACS).

Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) operation – The doctor makes a wider incision on the side of the cornea and removes the cloudy center of the lens in one piece during this procedure.

What are the possible side effects of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery, like any other surgery, involves complications such as infection and bleeding. Your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop taking some drugs that increase your risk of bleeding during surgery before cataract surgery.

Is cataract surgery a good option?

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful procedures available. In over 90% of cases, it enhances vision. It is also one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States.

What do I expect in the days leading up to surgery?

Your doctor will conduct some tests on the day of your cataract appointment. The curve of your cornea, as well as the size and shape of your eye, can be determined during these tests.

What do I expect from the surgery?

The surgical team will insert drops in your eye to dilate the pupil before surgery. During surgery, many people tend to remain awake.

What do I expect following surgery?

It is common to experience itching and mild discomfort following surgery. It's also common to experience some fluid loss.

Is it possible for complications to occur after surgery?

While complications following surgery are unusual, they may occur.

Among the Problems Occur are:

Infection is a form of infection.

I'm bleedin' Inflammation is a term used to describe the state of (pain, redness, swelling)

Visual deficiency

Doubtful perception

Large or low intraocular pressure

These issues may typically be successfully handled with timely medical treatment. The eye tissue that surrounds the IOL can become cloudy and cause vision blurring.