What Are Cataracts? Symptoms, Causes & Care | Dr. Soundari S | Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital
Dr. Soundari S from Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital explains that cataracts are a clouding of the natural lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision, glare, and difficulty with daily activities. They are most often age-related but can also result from trauma, diabetes, or prolonged steroid use.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina. This results in blurred or dim vision, faded colors, and increased sensitivity to light. Cataracts typically develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Patients with cataracts may experience:
Clouded or blurred vision
Difficulty seeing at night
Sensitivity to light and glare
Faded or yellowed colors
Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
Halos around lights
These symptoms often worsen over time, making routine activities such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces more difficult.
Causes of Cataracts
While aging is the most common cause, other factors include:
Genetics: Family history of cataracts
Medical conditions: Diabetes, hypertension
Eye injuries or trauma
Medications: Long-term steroid use
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, UV exposure
Cataract Care and Treatment
The only permanent solution for cataracts is surgery, where the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
Treatment options include:
Phacoemulsification (Phaco): Ultrasound technology to break and remove the cloudy lens.
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS): Advanced laser precision for safer outcomes.
Premium IOLs: Multifocal or toric lenses that reduce dependence on glasses.
Post-surgery care:
Use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation.
Avoid rubbing the eyes or exposure to dust.
Attend follow-up visits for monitoring.
Preventive Measures
Although cataracts cannot always be prevented, lifestyle changes can delay progression:
Protect eyes from UV rays with sunglasses.
Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants.
Control diabetes and blood pressure.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss but can be treated effectively with surgery. With advanced technology available at hospitals like Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, patients can expect safe procedures, quick recovery, and restored vision. Early detection and timely care are key to maintaining eye health and quality of life.
