Cataracts - Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

This is the most common symptom of cataracts. The cloudiness or blurriness can affect one or both eyes and make it difficult to see clearly.

Cataracts can make it difficult to tolerate bright lights or sunlight, leading to increased sensitivity to glare.

Cataracts can make it harder to see in low light conditions, such as when driving at night.

Cataracts can cause double vision in one eye, which can signify a more advanced cataract.

As cataracts progress, colours may appear less vibrant or take on a yellowish tint.

Cataracts can cause frequent changes in the eyeglass prescription needed to achieve clear vision.

Cataracts can cause halos or rings around lights, particularly at night.

Cataracts can make reading difficult, particularly in small print or low-light conditions.

Not all changes in vision are due to cataracts, and some other eye conditions can cause similar symptoms. It's important to see an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam to determine the cause of any vision changes and to receive appropriate treatment.

As we age, the proteins in the eye's lens may break down or clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy and form cataracts. The exact mechanism by which this happens is not fully understood. Still, it is thought to be due to changes in the chemical structure of the lens proteins over time. Additionally, the accumulation of oxidative damage in the lens over time may also contribute to the development of cataracts. Age-related changes in lens metabolism may also play a role in cataract formation. These changes can result in a buildup of substances in the lens that cause it to become opaque. Overall, the longer a person lives, the more exposure their eyes have to these age-related changes, which can increase their risk of developing cataracts. Age-related cataracts are the most common type and usually develop gradually over many years.

Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure is a significant risk factor for cataracts, particularly long-term exposure to UV light from sunlight. The harmful UV radiation in sunlight can cause damage to the proteins in the eye's lens and lead to the development of cataracts over time. Wearing protective eyewear and sunscreens that block UV radiation can help reduce the risk of cataracts.

Smoking is also a known risk factor for cataracts. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can cause oxidative damage to the lens proteins, increasing the risk of cataracts. Smoking cessation can help reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye problems.

People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing cataracts due to changes in the metabolism of the lens proteins and increased oxidative stress in the lens. Poorly controlled blood sugar levels can also contribute to the development of cataracts. Regular eye exams and good diabetes management can help reduce the risk of cataracts in people with diabetes.

Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, chlorpromazine, and amiodarone, have increased the risk of cataracts when used for prolonged periods. Discussing the potential dangers of these medications with your doctor or ophthalmologist is important.

Trauma or injury to the eye can also increase the risk of cataracts. The lens of the eye can be damaged by impact or penetration injuries, causing clouding and other changes that can contribute to the development of cataracts.

Exposure to certain types of radiation, such as X-rays, can increase the risk of cataracts. This is particularly true for people with repeated or prolonged exposure to radiation, such as healthcare workers and people undergoing radiation therapy.

Genetic factors can also increase the risk of developing cataracts. Some genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome and myotonic dystrophy, are associated with an increased risk of cataracts. Additionally, having a family history of cataracts may be a risk factor for developing the condition.

Alcohol use has been linked to an increased risk of cataracts. Alcohol can cause damage to the proteins in the eye's lens by increasing oxidative stress and disrupting protein metabolism, leading to the development of cataracts. Alcohol consumption may also interact with other cataract risk factors, such as smoking and poor nutrition. Heavy alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of cataracts and smoking.

Congenital cataracts are cataracts that are present at birth or develop in early childhood. Congenital cataracts can be caused by genetic and environmental factors, including genetic disorders like Down, Lowe, and Marfan. Metabolic disorders like galactosemia, phenylketonuria, and trauma or injury to the eye during development can also contribute to congenital cataracts. Environmental factors such as infections during pregnancy, exposure to toxins or certain medications can increase the risk of congenital cataracts.

Cataract surgery is generally considered a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate. However, like all surgeries, it carries some risks and potential complications - listed below.

There is a small risk of infection following cataract surgery, which can be serious and require additional treatment.

Some bleeding can occur during or after surgery, which can cause vision loss if it is not controlled.

Swelling of the cornea can occur after surgery, which can cause temporary vision changes.

In rare cases, the retina may detach after cataract surgery, which can cause vision loss and require additional surgery.

Cataract surgery can sometimes lead to increased eye pressure, which can cause or worsen glaucoma.

The artificial lens implanted during cataract surgery can sometimes become dislocated, requiring additional surgery to reposition or replace it.

In some cases, a new cataract can form on the lens capsule that holds the intraocular lens (IOL), which can cause vision changes and require additional surgery to remove.

It is recommended to avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects for at least the first few days following cataract surgery to allow for proper healing of the eye. The timeline for resuming normal activities will vary and depend on your circumstances and the surgical technique. However, it is best to follow your surgeon's specific instructions.

It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after cataract surgery before driving - to allow the effects of the anaesthesia or sedation to wear off and to ensure your vision is stable and clear. However, this may vary depending on your circumstances - such as the type of surgery performed and any other underlying eye conditions. As mentioned above, following your surgeon's instructions is best.

The timing between cataract surgery on each eye may vary depending on your circumstances and the surgeon's recommendation. In general, waiting at least a few weeks or longer before undergoing surgery on the second eye is recommended - to allow the first eye to heal and for any initial visual changes to stabilise. The surgeon may also consider factors such as the severity of cataracts, your overall health and medical history, and the potential risks and benefits of surgery for each eye.

Cataract surgery typically takes 15-30 minutes to perform. However, the exact duration will depend on the complexity of the cataract and any other underlying eye conditions. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day. The surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, numbing the eye and surrounding area while awake. After the surgery, you're monitored for a short period to ensure no complications or adverse effects and then allowed to return home.

Recovery time after cataract surgery varies depending on your age, health, and the extent of the surgery. Most people can return to normal activities in a few days or weeks.
Eye drops are given to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. A follow-up visit must ensure proper healing within the first week or two. You should avoid activities that can put pressure on the eye. Normal activities can usually be resumed within a week, but vision may take several weeks to fully stabilise. Glasses or contact lenses may be needed to correct any remaining vision problems.