Cataracts are the Leading Cause of Reversible Visual- Cataracts are the leading cause of reversible visual loss among adults age 55 years and older. Cataracts result from the clouding of the natural lens, the part of the eye responsible for focusing light and producing clear sharp images. The lens is contained in a sealed bag or capsule. As old cells die, they become trapped within the capsule. Over time, the cells accumulate and cause the lens to cloud, making images look blurred or fuzzy.
Cataracts can occur in one or both eyes and can be related to one of the following categories: age related (> 50% of all American over 65 years of age have cataracts), congenital, secondary (from steroid use or health conditions such as diabetes), or traumatic (eye injuries can lead to cataracts either directly or many years later).
There are three types of cataracts: nuclear, cortical, and subcapsular.
- Nuclearcataracts are located in the central area of the lens and are usually a result of advancing age.
- Cortical cataracts are located in the periphery of the lens and grow inward; they are associated with patients who suffer from diabetes.
- And the subcapsular type of cataract develops at the back of the lens and is more common in patients who take steroids or have diabetes.
A cataract usually develops slowly and causes no pain. At first, the cloudiness affects only part of the lens and patients may be unaware of symptoms. Symptoms of advancing cataracts include cloudy or foggy vision, blurry vision, and changes in color vision. There may also be frequent changes in eyeglass/ contact prescription strength. Patients may also notice halos/glare, poor night vision, double vision, and/or progressive loss of vision.
Risk factors for cataracts include family history, ultraviolet exposure, free radicals, medications, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and medical problems such as diabetes. Cataracts are diagnosed by a complete ophthalmological exam, including a visual acuity test, a slit lamp examination, and a retinal exam.
The only effective cataract treatment involves surgery to remove the cloudy natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens. There are several variations in both the removal and replacement portions of the surgery. Extracapsular surgeryremoves the lens of the eye but leaves the capsule intact. Intracapsular surgeryremoves the entire lens and capsule. The lens is replaced with either an intraocular lens implant (IOL), contact lens, or glasses. The type of procedure performed is decided by the physician and the patient.
Most cataracts occur with age and cannot be avoided. For early detection, people older than 60 years of age should get their eyes examined every other year. Stopping smoking, eating a balanced diet, and protecting oneself from ultraviolet exposure with sunglasses may help.
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