Cataracts

Initially, cataracts might not be noticeable. However, as they progress, they can cause your vision to become blurry, hazy, or less vibrant. This can make reading and other daily tasks challenging. If untreated, cataracts can eventually result in vision loss.

Cataracts primarily form due to aging or injury, which alters the tissue of the eye’s lens. This leads to the breakdown of proteins and fibres within the lens, resulting in cloudy or hazy vision. Additionally, certain inherited disorders that affect overall health can heighten the risk of developing cataracts.

The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, though it may not be immediately necessary. If detected early, a new prescription for glasses might suffice. A stronger lens can temporarily improve your vision.

Managing cataracts can be difficult, but it is possible. Early on, cataracts may only slightly affect your vision. Simple changes, such as using brighter lighting for reading, wearing anti-glare sunglasses, or utilising magnifying lenses, can help alleviate symptoms.

Cataract surgery is typically painless, both during and after the procedure. A topical anaesthetic, in the form of eye drops, will be used to numb your eye. Following the surgery, you may experience a gritty or slightly tender sensation, but over-the-counter pain relievers should alleviate this discomfort.

Preventing cataracts can be challenging, but the best approach is to minimize exposure to ultraviolet light by wearing sunglasses. Refrain from using steroid eye drops unless absolutely necessary, and avoid medications that are associated with cataract progression.

Cataract surgery can be performed at any stage of development, so there is no need to wait until the cataract is fully developed. Most individuals opt for surgery when their vision impairment begins to interfere with daily activities.

Cataract surgery typically lasts between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the condition’s severity. Additionally, you should allocate up to 30 minutes after the procedure to recover from the sedative’s effects.

If left untreated, cataracts will ultimately obstruct light from entering the eye, leading to vision loss. Cataracts are the primary cause of blindness worldwide.

For the initial 2 to 3 days, rest is recommended. Wear your eye shield at night for at least a week and take painkillers if necessary. You may bathe or shower as usual

Cataracts do not resolve on their own and will progressively worsen over time. If left untreated, they can lead to blindness. To prevent cataracts from impacting your daily life, it is important to include regular eye exams as part of your routine self-care.

Typically, lenses are adjusted for clear distance vision, which may necessitate wearing reading glasses or glasses for close work following the procedure. If a person has astigmatism, they might need glasses for both distance and reading after receiving a monofocal lens implant.

Your eyes will be sensitive to light, and you will need time to adjust to your replacement lens. It is advisable to avoid using screens for about 24 hours after surgery. Once you resume watching TV, take regular breaks to prevent eye strain and refrain from rubbing your eyes.

At present, there are no scientifically validated eye drops that can treat or cure cataracts. Eye drops claiming to dissolve cataracts are fraudulent, as no such treatment exists. Claims made by these products about their effects are therefore misleading and untrue.

It is common for patients to notice new visual sensations and perceptions immediately after cataract surgery in both eyes. Typically, achieving 20/20 vision in one eye and 20/25 vision in the other is considered an excellent outcome.