Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a painless, cloudy area in the lens of the eye that blocks the passage of light to the retina, which causes vision impairment. Cataracts sometimes remain small and may not be noticeable. They may not seriously affect vision, and some cataracts do not need to be removed. However, many cataracts grow larger or more dense over time, often causing severe vision changes such as blurry or cloudy vision, difficulty driving at night due to glare from headlights, and difficulty performing daily activities. These results may worsen as the cataract progresses, and eventually lead to blindness if not treated.
Globally, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, affecting 18 million people. Cataracts are even more significant as a cause of low vision, affecting 65 million worldwide.

What causes a cataract?

A cataract develops largely with the aging process. However, studies show that other factors can lead to cataracts. These factors include eye injury, exposure to UV rays, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Diabetics are also at risk of developing cataracts. Prolonged usage of certain medications, such as steroids or statins, has shown to accelerate the development of cataracts. These factors are minimal causes of cataracts however, whereas the aging process causes about 99% of cataract cases.
Routine eye exams should always be considered in the aging process to help diagnose and treat the development of cataracts.

What are the symptoms of a cataract?

A person with cataracts may experience blurry vision, sensitivity to light, trouble with glare, dulled colors, and occasionally double vision. Sometimes cataracts can cause a “second sight”, which involves temporary improved vision. This is because the structure of the lens changes and causes nearsightedness to become more present. However, as the cataract progresses, vision will worsen, rather than improve.

How is cataracts treated?

In the beginning stages of cataracts, prescription glasses and contacts are used to help with the deteriorating vision. But this does not stop cataracts from developing further. When a cataract begins to hinder daily activities, surgery is considered the only option. With cataract surgery, the lens is removed and then replaced with an intra-ocular lens. The most common surgery is done by a process called phacoemulsification, in which a tiny incision is made in the eye (about 1/8”). This is a painless procedure and only takes about 10 minutes. The most common choice of intra-ocular lens is the ReSTOR IOL, which gives a patient full range of vision and the patient can discontinue the use of glasses or contacts. There are also other implants available, which can be discussed with your eye surgeon when considering cataract surgery.
Here’s a video of cataract surgery being performed: Cataract Surgery Performed By Dr. Wade.

Can cataracts be prevented?

There is no real way to prevent cataracts, but there are ways to slow the progression of cataracts. Living a healthy lifestyle is crucial. Keeping your cholesterol in check may help to, and is also part of a healthy lifestyle. Consuming antioxidants is healthy for your vision; antioxidants can be found in foods like green, leafy vegetables and brightly colored fruits. Another approach is to decrease your exposure to UV rays by wearing proper sunglasses (of course, this can also help prevent other eye diseases). If you are diabetic, keeping your blood sugar under control helps with slowing the progression of cataracts and other eye diseases, such as glaucoma.