What is Cataract? Symptoms and Treatment

What is Cataract?

A cataract is an eye disease that causes visual impairment when the natural lens in the eye loses its transparency. The lens in the eye focuses light onto the retina, but with age the transparency of this lens decreases, resulting in blurred, foggy vision. 
Normally, the lens in the eye works transparently to focus light onto the retina. But when cataracts develop, the lens becomes cloudy and prevents light from focusing properly on the retina. This can lead to a decrease in the quality of vision and, if left untreated, blindness over time.

Although cataracts are usually a problem that occurs as a result of aging, they can also occur due to congenital diseases, trauma or diabetes.
Cataracts are one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in the world today. And cataracts are still a very serious cause of vision loss in developing and underdeveloped countries. However, in developed countries where cataract surgery is used intensively, it is no longer a cause of blindness. 

What are the Causes of Cataract?

The most common cause of cataract is aging. However, cataracts can also develop for different reasons. 

Age 

70% of people over 80 years of age have cataracts.

Congenital Cataract (Congenital)

Congenital cataracts can be caused by genetic factors or infections in the womb (e.g. rubella). Genetic diseases such as galactosemia and Down syndrome are also associated with cataracts. 

Traumatic Cataract 

Impacts or trauma to the eye can cause cataracts.

Radiation and Rays

Prolonged exposure to UV light in the eye can increase the risk of cataracts.

Medicines and Cortisone

Long-term use of cortisone can also cause cataracts.

Genetic Factors

The risk increases in individuals with a family history of cataract.

What are the Symptoms of Cataract?

The main symptoms of cataracts include blurred vision and foggy vision. Also, changes in the number of the eye, especially in older people, can be a symptom of cataracts, as can clearer near vision. Patients may also complain of deterioration in their distance vision and frequent changes in the number of their glasses.

How is cataract treated? 

Cataract treatment is based on the level of vision loss. When vision loss is below 50%, cataract surgery is usually recommended. The most common method for cataract surgery is a technique called phacoemulsification. In this surgical procedure, the condensed lens is broken into pieces with an ultrasonic device and removed from the eye. An artificial lens (intraocular lens) is then implanted, replacing the natural lens in the eye.

How is cataract surgery performed? 

Cataract surgery is one of the most widely used and successful procedures in the world. It is usually performed under local anesthesia and as a day treatment. 

A lens suitable for the patient is determined with the eye measurements made after the eye examination performed before the surgery. The most commonly used method in cataract surgery is the Phacoemulsification Method. This method is commonly known as “Phaco”. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the eye. The natural lens, which becomes cloudy with ultrasonic vibrations, is broken down and absorbed. An artificial intraocular lens (intraocular lens) is then inserted. 

The choice of artificial intraocular lens is determined according to the patient's needs and general condition.  Monofocal lenses have been used for many years and the main purpose was to provide good vision for distance. These people use glasses for near vision. Astigmatism can also be corrected with Toric lenses, which have been used more in recent years. When monofocal toric lenses are used, it is possible to significantly correct the natural astigmatism caused by the cornea. In Multifocal Lenses, that is, multifocal lenses, it is possible to promise a glasses-free life by correcting both distance and near vision. However, the important point at this point is the right patient selection

Is Cataract Prevention Possible?

Although cataracts usually develop due to aging, it is possible to reduce the risk with some lifestyle changes. In particular, prolonged exposure to the sun should be avoided and protective sunglasses should be used against UV rays. Avoiding risk factors such as smoking and excessive cortisone use can also help prevent cataracts from developing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cataract