Cataract Treatment

Cataract is one of the most common eye problems that affects millions of people all over the world. Cataract is characterized by the clouding of the natural transparent lens that is present in our eyes. The clouding of the lens could be caused due to a variety of reasons. Though this eye problem commonly affects the middle aged or the elderly, it could sometimes occur earlier in life. The natural lens of the eye that is positioned behind the iris performs the vital task of focusing light on the retina at the back of the eye. It is at the retina that the image is formed and light impulses are converted into electrical signals. These signals are interpreted by the brain and this is how we see the world around us. When the eyes get affected with cataract, the eye lens becomes opaque and as a result, light cannot be transmitted to the retina which in turn affects one's vision. Cataract not only obscures or distorts the vision, if left untreated, it could also lead to impairment of vision. It is therefore very essential that it is diagnosed and treated at the earliest. Those who have been diagnosed with cataract would have to undergo a surgery for the treatment of this eye condition. Scroll down to learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment of cataract.

Causes and Symptoms of Cataract

As mentioned earlier, cataract is mainly experienced as a result of aging. The eye lens mainly contains water and certain proteins. As we age, the composition might get affected. Since the proteins facilitate the clarity of vision, an alteration in the structure of these lens causes the lens to become cloudy. Cataract is seen to develop in people who are in the age group of 50-60 years, but sometimes it might develop at an earlier age.

In rare cases, it might be a congenital defect. Trauma to the eye, inflammation, excessive exposure to the sun or any type of radiation, medical conditions such as diabetes, smoking, alcoholism or long term use of certain medications can make one susceptible to cataract. Cataract could develop in one or both eyes. The symptoms of cataract include blurred vision, poor night vision, formation of a white spot on the pupil, dulled color vision, increased sensitivity to bright light, seeing halos in sun or around bright light and eye strain when reading.

Treatment of Cataract

Sometimes cataract might start growing at a fast pace, it is therefore very essential that one goes for regular eye checkups. Snellen test, glare test and contrast sensitivity test are generally conducted in order to assess the growth and effects of cataract. Doctors might recommend small incision cataract surgery, a surgical procedure that is performed under a local anesthetic. A sedative is also administered to help the patient relax. If you are thinking of undergoing this surgery, make sure that you find out all about the risks associated with the cataract surger. In this surgery, a tiny incision is made on the surface of the eye or around the cornea and the natural crystalline lens of the eye is removed using phacoemulsification technique. Once cataract is removed, an artificial intraocular lens is placed in the eye.

Phacoemulsification, extracapsular cataract surgery and intracapsular cataract surgery are the basic techniques that are used for the surgical removal of cataract. In case of phacoemulsification, ultrasound waves are used for softening up the lens core. The lens is then suctioned out and an artificial lens is placed in its place. Extracapsular cataract surgery is used when the lens has become too dense and the ultrasound waves cannot really dissolve it into fragments. A large incision is then made so that the entire cataract can be removed. Since the entire cataract along with the surrounding capsule is removed in intracapsular cataract surgery, the size of the incision is even bigger. This procedure is performed rarely. These days, doctors are also resorting to cataract laser treatment, wherein laser is used for making incisions as well as for breaking and removing cataract.

Under normal circumstances, one may take two to three months to recover from the surgery, but the recovery time could also vary depending on the type of surgery. Blurred vision and retinal detachment post cataract surgery are some of the common post-surgery complications. When it comes to non-surgical treatment options, it is believed that administering Can-C eye drops may help. The use of bilberry extract is believed to be effective in treating cataract, but it is recommended that you consult a herbal practitioner before using any herbal remedy for cataract. You must also take all precautionary measures as well. Protect your eyes from harsh sunlight by wearing sunglasses or broad-rimmed hats. Refrain from excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking as well.

This was all about symptoms and treatment of cataract. Eyes are very delicate organs, so, make sure that you pay attention to the aspect of eye care. Since cataract is generally age-related, so, if you develop this eye condition, consult a doctor for cataract treatment immediately.