Are Cataracts Clouding Your World? 

They say that the eyes are the windows to the soul. But what if those windows turn foggy? Globally, cataracts are a primary reason for blindness, affecting over 17 million people. The crisis is particularly acute in India, where cataracts account for 80% of blindness cases. Let's shed some light on this common yet often-overlooked eye condition. 

A cataract is a cloudy film (called opacification) that forms in the eye's lens. The lens, normally clear, helps focus light onto the retina for sharp vision. When a cataract forms, it blocks or scatters light, causing blurry or hazy vision. When proteins within the lens break down and clump together, they cloud the lens, interfering with the passage of light and resulting in blurred or cloudy vision.

Cataracts can be classified based on their location within the lens:

• Nuclear cataract is the most common type, characterised by the hardening and yellowing of the lens's central nucleus.
• Cortical cataract is the development of opaque white wedges within the lens cortex, the outer layer of the lens.
• Posterior subcapsular cataract occurs at the back of the lens and often progresses rapidly, causing significant visual impairment.
• Congenital cataracts are present at birth, often due to genetic or developmental abnormalities.
• Secondary cataract develops as a complication of other eye conditions, such as diabetes or glaucoma.

Although cataracts are commonly linked to ageing, various factors can increase the likelihood of their development.

• Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid problems
• Excessive sun exposure
• Cigarette smoking
• Long-term corticosteroid medications, such as those used for asthma or arthritis
• Trauma to the eye

The risk factors associated with cataracts also lead to interesting questions, like: 

There’s no direct link between screen time and cataracts. However, it’s recommended to take breaks and keep a proper distance when viewing screens, as the blue light they emit can lead to eye strain.

Stress itself doesn't directly cause cataracts, but it can indirectly affect eye health through factors like poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, and increased smoking or alcohol consumption. In fact, studies show that older adults with cataracts are more likely to experience depression compared to those without cataracts.

Cataract symptoms typically develop gradually and may include blurred vision, which is the most common symptom of cataracts. “It’s like looking at the world through a frosted window,” described Meera*, a 65-year-old cataract patient. 

• Blurry, hazy vision can significantly impact daily life activities, from driving to reading. 
• Difficulty with night vision or experiencing halos and glare around lights
• Faded or yellowed colours
• Double vision in a single eye can occur as the cataract grows.

A cataract causes frequent changes in eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions, which means more frequent adjustments are needed to correct vision. It’s important to note that these cataract symptoms can also indicate other eye conditions, making a comprehensive eye examination important for an accurate diagnosis.

Meera* had always prided herself on her independence. Gardening was her passion; she could easily identify every plant in her backyard. But lately, something was off. The once sharp focus of her world was slowly fading.

Concerned, Meera decided to consult her ophthalmologist. After a detailed history, they initiated a comprehensive eye examination, which showed that cataracts in both eyes were behind her symptoms.

So, how do healthcare professionals diagnose a cataract? The process includes several investigations, such as checking how good your eyesight is at different distances. The exact refractive error of your eyes may be determined to assess the need for glasses or contact lenses. Eye drops could be used to widen the pupil, allowing a thorough examination of the retina, optic nerve, and lens. The doctor may also directly observe the cloudy areas within the lens via a magnified view of the eye’s structures to study the presence and severity of a cataract.

Coping mechanisms became essential. Meera invested in brighter lights, magnifying glasses, and large-print books. She adjusted her routines, avoiding night driving and seeking help with tasks that required fine vision. Yet, a sense of frustration and isolation crept in. While no medication could reverse the condition, surgery offered a promising cataract treatment.

What about when someone has bilateral cataracts? Bilateral means the cataracts are present in both eyes. The treatment for bilateral cataracts is typically the same as for cataracts in a single eye: surgery.

In all cases, it is important to consult your doctor and weigh all possible options before deciding on a treatment method. Factors such as difficulty with driving, reading, or performing tasks that require good vision can influence the timing of the procedure.

Patients may experience mild discomfort, redness, or a gritty sensation in the eye. These symptoms usually subside within a few days. While complete healing takes several weeks, most individuals notice significant vision improvement shortly after surgery. Successful cataract surgery can dramatically enhance a person’s quality of life. 

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent cataracts entirely, certain lifestyle factors can help reduce the risk or slow their progression. These include:  

• Shield your eyes from the sun’s harsh UV rays with sunglasses that offer UV protection and a wide-brim hat.
• A nutrient-rich diet featuring fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can support overall eye health.
• Managing long-standing conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and high blood pressure may help.
• Regular eye check-ups help with early detection and monitoring of cataract progression.

Early detection is your best defence against vision loss. Regular eye exams can help identify cataracts early, allowing for timely treatment. With advancements in cataract surgery, restoring clear vision is often achievable. Don't let cataracts dim your world. Take charge of your eye health today.