The human eye has a natural lens which is clear and functions to bend the light entering the eye to help us see.
A cataract causes the clear lens to become cloudy and slowly opaque. Vision through such a lens can be compared to seeing through a foggy or a dusty windshield.
The common symptoms of Cataract are:
- Blurred Vision
- Seeing double images of one object
- Difficulty in dim light or night driving
- Loss of contrast or objects appearing faded in color
- Progressively decreasing vision and eventually blindness if left untreated
What causes Cataract??
Aging is the most common cause which is because of age-related changes in lens proteins causing them to become opaque. However, cataract can occur at a young age too. Some of the common causes are:
- Family history of early onset of cataract of parents and siblings
- Uncontrolled Diabetes
- Injury to the eye or around the eye
- Past eye surgery
- Radiation therapy to the head, neck and upper body
- Long term exposure to the sun
- Use of corticosteroids as tablets, skin creams, or eye drops for a long duration
There are some ways which can help slow down the development of cataracts:
- Change your diet. The same diet that is good for your body is good for your eyes. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in antioxidants. Also include nuts, whole grains and cold water fish in your diet.
- Protect your eyes from extensive exposure to the sun. Wearing sunglasses or a brimmed hat is good for your eyes and your skin.
- Stop Smoking. The leading source of cadmium comes from cigarette smoke.
- Better Control of Diabetes
What is the treatment??
There is no medical treatment to prevent the development or progression of Cataract. Only definitive treatment is Cataract Surgery to remove the cloudy lens and implantation of intraocular lens.
Visit your nearest Ophthalmologist if you have symptoms of blurred or foggy vision
Specialist Ophthalmologist
Aster Speciality Clinic, Discovery Garden
