Cataracts
Cataracts are a clouding or ‘misting over’ of the lens of the eye. This affects normal vision, and cataracts will affect most people if they live long enough.
- What causes them?
- Most cataracts appear to be caused by the ageing process, but the exact reason for this is still unclear. It may be that years of the eye being exposed to ultraviolet radiation changes the chemical composition of the lens and forms a cataract.
- What are the signs and symptoms?
- The most obvious symptom is a drop in clear vision and occasionally poor vision in bright light such as car headlights or sunshine. Others include an increase in the number of times reading glasses are being changed. Eyes with well developed cataracts in them have a characteristic ‘milky’ film over them, and one eye is usually affected before another.
- Will I have any tests or investigations?
- The optometrist will examine the eyes painlessly using an ophthalmoscope- a kind of small flashlight- and the cataracts can be clearly seen. There will also be eye chart tests to try to assess the loss of vision.
- What course will the illness follow?
- Most cataracts develop extremely slowly over a period of many years, and so a gradual loss of vision may not be too disabling until the loss is severe. Surgery is usually considered when the visual problems interfere with normal daily activities. Many patients however require no treatment for their cataracts as they are able to lead a normal life with them.
- What treatment might I need?
- Initially, stronger glasses may be prescribed, but when this has no effect on improving vision, surgery is performed and the cataract is removed. Normally a new plastic lens- and implant is inserted. This remains in place permanently, requires no maintenance, and is not felt by the patient or noticed by others. Spectacles may still be needed but thick glasses are usually not required.
In general, once a cataract has been operated on and vision corrected the patient has satisfactory sight and is able to lead a normal life.
- Can I do anything to help myself?
- There is some evidence that avoiding ultraviolet light can reduce cataract formation, so protecting the eyes from sunlight by wearing glasses is sensible. Have an annual eye examination.