Cataracts
A cataract is a loss of clarity within the lens of the eye. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment and blindness, so prevention, diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
What causes cataracts?
A standard lens is transparent, allowing light to pass through it to the retina.
However, as we age, proteins build up in the lens, causing it to become stiff and cloudy. The cloudy masses are known as cataracts, blocking the light from reaching the retina.
Cataracts typically form after the age of 45. Over time, they can grow and result in a loss of vision.
Genetics, sun exposure and some medications are other causes of cataracts.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
The symptoms of cataracts include:
- cloudy or filmy vision
- dulled colour vision
- increased sensitivity to bright lights and the sun
- difficulty judging depth
- frequent changes in your glasses prescription
- double vision.
How is a cataract diagnosed?
Cataracts can be picked up through a thorough eye exam that includes:
- a visual acuity test with an eye chart to see how clearly you see at different distances
- a dilated eye exam with eye drops to check for signs of damage and other eye conditions
- tonometry, which is an instrument that measures the pressure inside your eyes.
At Hobart Eye Surgeons, we recommend a general eye exam once every 2 years for those over 45 years old.
Are there different types of cataracts?
In addition to age-related cataracts, there are also:
- congenital cataracts, which babies are sometimes born with due to infections, injuries or poor development
- secondary cataracts that result from pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, smoking and exposure to radiation.
- traumatic cataracts that form after an eye injury.
How do I prevent the onset of cataracts?
You can help prevent cataracts by:
- managing environmental risk factors such as UV exposure by wearing appropriate sunglasses
- addressing behavioural risk factors such as quitting smoking.
Again, we recommend a general eye exam once every 2 years for those over 45 years old. This is especially important for cataracts as early detection and treatment can stop them from developing.
What are the long-term implications of cataracts?
Cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment and blindness, which result in a reduced quality of life.
What are the treatment options for cataracts?
Surgery is very successful in treating cataracts. Cataract surgery removes the clouded lens from your eye, replacing it with a clear, acrylic intraocular lens.