Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Picture peering through a frosted or foggy window — everything is fuzzy, colours look muted, and even direct lights cause discomforting glare. That’s what vision with cataracts can be like. Cataracts are a well-known eye condition, especially in old age, and occur when the eye’s natural lens clouds up, resulting in progressively blurred vision.
The good news is that cataracts are treatable, and early detection can help a lot. Here, we take a closer look at cataracts, including what they are, how they are caused, symptoms to look out for, and the latest treatments that allow you to see clearly.
What is a Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which is located behind the iris and the pupil. The lens in a normal eye is clear, and light can pass through the lens and is focused on the retina, forming a clear image. But as a cataract grows, proteins in the lens start to stick together, leading to cloudiness in the vision.
Cataracts usually occur gradually and are most common in those who are over 60. But they can also develop earlier, as a result of genetics, medical conditions, or eye injuries. Cataracts do not go away without treatment and can cause vision impairment and even lead to blindness; in such cases, we can expect good vision again after surgery.
Causes and Risk Factors
While ageing is the most common cause of cataracts, several other factors can increase the risk:
1. Ageing
- The natural ageing process causes the lens to become less flexible and more prone to clouding.
2. Genetics
- A family history of cataracts may increase your likelihood of developing them.
3. Medical Conditions
- Diabetes – High blood sugar levels can accelerate cataract formation.
- Hypertension – Poor circulation can affect eye health.
- Eye injuries or previous surgeries – Trauma can trigger early cataract development.
4. Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking – Toxins in cigarettes contribute to lens damage.
- Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to oxidative stress in the eyes.
- Prolonged UV exposure – Sunlight without proper protection increases the risk.
5. Medications
- Long-term use of corticosteroids (e.g., for asthma or arthritis) can promote cataract formation.
Signs and Symptoms
Cataracts form slowly, and you might not notice any symptoms at first. Common signs include:
- Double vision – Two of everything; it’s quite distracting!
- Night blindness – Not being able to see well in poor light.
- Sensitivity to light and glare – Bright lights may feel uncomfortable.
- Glare or starbursts from lights – Most apparent at night while driving.
- Constant changing of prescriptions – Needing a stronger pair of glasses.
- Fading/yellowing of colours – Colours can look duller.
- Double vision in one eye – Unusual, but could be a symptom.
If you have any of these symptoms, see an eye care professional for an evaluation.
How Cataracts Are Diagnosed
Ophthalmologists detect cataracts through:
- Visual Acuity Test – Tests your vision at near and far distances.
- Slit-Lamp Exam – A microscope examines the cornea, iris, and lens for changes.
- Retinal Exam – The pupil is dilated, and the retina is checked for cataract symptoms.
Regular eye examinations are important, and after 40, early intervention and management are beneficial.
Stages of Cataract Progression
Cataracts develop in stages:
- Early Stage – Slight blurry sight; many individuals do not realise that there are any noticeable differences.
- Moderate Stage – Requires stronger lighting; difficulty driving at night and reading.
- Late Stage – Vision becomes severely impaired; the lens is now opaque.
Because the progression is slow, most people accommodate until the vision loss disrupts daily activities.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Management (Early Stage)
- Stronger glasses or contacts may improve vision temporarily.
- Brighter lighting – Good for reading and close work.
- Anti-glare sunglasses – Avoid the direct glare of the sun and artificial light.
Surgical Treatment (Advanced Cases)
When cataracts cause severe vision problems, your best treatment option is surgery.
- The opaque lens is removed by phacoemulsification (ultrasound).
- Following lens extraction, an intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted to restore clear vision.
- The procedure is safe, rapid (15-30 minutes), and successful in most cases.
- Presbyopia and astigmatism can also be corrected with modern IOLs, reducing the need for glasses.
Recovery and Post-Surgery Care
Recovery time is usually between 8 and 12 hours after surgery, and most patients can return to work within 24 hours.
- Vision typically improves within 24-48 hours after surgery.
- Full recovery may take a few weeks.
Post-Surgery Guidelines:
- Avoid rubbing the eye.
- Follow instructions for prescribed eye drops to prevent infection.
- Use an eye shield when sleeping.
- Avoid vigorous activities for several weeks.
Follow-up visits ensure proper healing, and most patients resume normal activities quickly.
Preventive Tips
Cataracts are not always preventable, but the following can help lower risk:
✔ UV-protection sunglasses – Shield your eyes from harmful sun rays.
✔ Antioxidant-rich diet – Leafy greens, berries, and fish support eye health.
✔ Control diabetes and hypertension – Manage blood sugar and pressure.
✔ Don’t smoke and drink moderately – Reduces oxidative stress on eyes.
✔ Regular eye tests – Early diagnosis is critical.
When to See a Doctor
Call your doctor if you experience:
- Sudden vision changes
- Eye pain or flashes of light
- Inability to perform daily tasks due to poor vision
Early intervention improves treatment outcomes.
Conclusion
Cataracts are a prevalent and treatable condition that impacts millions. Clear vision can be regained safely and successfully with expert attention and state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical techniques at Chase Lodge Hospital.
If you or someone close to you is experiencing vision problems, don’t delay—visit us for an eye exam and take the first step toward better eye health today.
