Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
What are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a common eye condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry or impaired vision. The lens, which focuses light onto the retina, is normally clear, but as cataracts develop, it becomes opaque. This condition can affect one or both eyes, though it does not spread from one eye to the other. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to significant vision impairment and, in severe cases, blindness.
What are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
Cataracts develop gradually, and early on, symptoms may be mild and easy to overlook. However, as the condition progresses, the following symptoms may become more pronounced:
- Clouded, blurred, or dim vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Fading or yellowing of colours
- Double vision in one eye
- Frequent prescription changes for glasses or contact lenses
These symptoms can severely impact daily activities, such as reading, driving, and recognising faces, diminishing quality of life.
How Common are Cataracts?
Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions, especially among older adults. According to the Association of Optometrists, cataracts affect around 50% of people aged 65 over over in the UK.
Who is Most Likely to Develop Cataracts?
- Most cataracts develop after the age of 60, but they can begin to form earlier.
- Genetics can play a role, with a higher likelihood of developing cataracts if close family members have had the condition.
- Women who go through menopause may be at a higher risk of developing cataracts due to hormonal changes.
- Individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at an earlier age.
- Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure can increase the likelihood of developing cataracts, so protecting your eyes from UV rays is essential.
- Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet can contribute to cataract formation.
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when proteins in the lens of the eye break down and clump together, causing the lens to lose its transparency. While aging is the most common cause, cataracts can also develop due to eye injuries or trauma, prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, exposure to radiation and previous eye surgery or other eye conditions.
How can Cataracts be Treated?
Fortunately, cataracts can be treated effectively. The primary treatment for cataracts is surgery, which involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest procedures performed, with a high success rate in restoring vision.
Regular eye tests are crucial for identifying cataracts early, even if you aren’t experiencing noticeable symptoms. Eye care professionals can monitor the development of cataracts and recommend surgery when necessary.
If you’re over 60 or have noticed changes in your vision, schedule an eye test today. Cataracts are highly treatable, and early detection can help you maintain clear vision for years to come.
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