Worldwide, Cataract is the second most leading cause of preventable blindness. So let's know a few more facts about it.
Cataract is opacification of the natural crystalline lens resulting in diminished vision. It occurs when protein clumps start to accumulate in natural lens. A white opaque film is formed and it prevents light from passing through the lens, to reach the retina. It is an age-related disorder and is usually classified according to the anatomical location within the lens and degree of clouding of lens.
Causes
1. AGE- People above 60 years are at high risk of developing cataract.
2. DIABETES- Uncontrolled Diabetic people develop cataract faster than normal healthier people.
3. DRUGS- Long-term use of steroids or other drugs can result in cataract.
4. EXPOSURE- UV-rays affect our eyes and can also cause cataract.
5. TRAUMA- Cataract can also be trauma induced.
6. GENETIC DISEASES like Galactosemia, Down’s syndrome etc. are associated with development of cataract.
7. CONGENITAL INFECTIONS like Herpes simplex, Rubella etc. May also result in cataract.
8. Few ailments like Atopic dermatitis, hypothyroidism and hyper - parathyroidism are also associated with early development of cataract.
SYMPTOMS
6. Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
DIAGNOSIS
It can be easily diagnosed by an ophthalmologist during a detailed eye examination.
TREATMENT
Surgical removal of opaque lens is the only treatment available. After surgery, patient is advised to limit his/her routine activities for only couple of days. It is a daycare surgery with fast recovery.
There is no re-occurrence of cataract once it is removed. However, there is a possibility that the capsule behind the Intra ocular lens may become cloudy with time and leads to blurred vision. This can easily be treated with a laser procedure in Ophthalmology OPD.
PREVENTION
There is no scientifically proven method that can help prevent cataract. Its progression can be avoided or slowed down by healthy diet, avoiding smoking, wearing UV protection sun glasses etc.
Dr. Kusha Goel
( India )