Background Information
Cataracts refer to cloudy areas which form in the lens of the eyes. The eye lens are composed mostly of proteins, which break down as people age and form cloudy patches which affect vision. These proteins usually begin to break down at around 40 years of age, but symptoms are noticed after 60 years.
Cataracts do not hurt. They are painless. However, they bring discomfort as they make the eyes to be sensitive to light.
Current Facts & Data
- Cataracts are very common in the United States and around the world.
- More than 15% of the world population have cataracts which cause vision problems. However, prevalence varies widely by country and region (high prevalence in low and middle income countries).
- In the United States, almost 1 in 5 persons aged 65-74 have cataracts that affect their vision.
- More than one-half of the population aged 80 years and above either have cataracts or they were removed through surgical procedures.
Factors That Contribute
Cause
The main cause of cataracts is proteins in the eye lens breaking down gradually.
Potential Risk Factors
Risk factors for cataracts are classified into three main groups:
- Medical
- Genetic
- Environmental
Medical risk factors:
- Eye diseases such as retina pigmentosa.
- Diabetes (high blood sugar levels).
- Eye surgeries such as treatment of glaucoma.
- Use of corticosteroids to treat illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Genetic risk factors:
- Family history of cataracts.
- Congenital cataracts due to genetic mutations.
Environmental risk factors:
- Air pollution.
- Pesticide use.
- Radiation therapy to the upper body parts.
- Smoking tobacco.
- Industrial chemicals.
- Exposure to UV light over long periods.
Manifestations & Indicators
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of cataracts include:
- Cloudy, blurry or foggy vision.
- Changes in color perception.
- Difficulty seeing at night.
- Double vision.
- Need for a brighter light to study books or read newspapers.
- Sensitivity to bright light.
Evaluation Techniques
Diagnosis & Tests
- Eye specialists (ophthalmologists and optometrists) diagnose cataracts through a comprehensive eye examination.
- Medical history and presenting signs and symptoms are captured.
- Tests.
Tests that can be performed are:
- Visual acuity test.
- Slit lamp examination.
Visual acuity test
This test is a common part of regular eye examination, quick and easy for the specialist to check vision and note changes. It is used to test or check vision. Visual acuity refers to how well one can see.
Slit lamp exam.
- A slit lamp is a special microscope with a bright light which the specialist shines into the eye.
- It is used to view parts of the eye such as:
- Cornea.
- Iris.
- Retina.
- Optic nerve.
- Conjuctiva.
- Sclera.
Approaches to Treatment & Care
Treatment and management
Cataract surgery is the only way to get rid of cataracts and restore clear vision. The procedure involves:
- Removal of clouded natural lens.
- Replacement with intraocular lens, which are artificial and permanently stay in the eyes.
Possible Consequences
- Cataract surgery can have complications such as:
- Retinal detachment.
- Eye infection.
- Despite these, most people have no serious complications.
Preventive Measures
How do we prevent cataracts?
- Avoid smoking tobacco as this raises the likelihood of developing cataracts.
- Wear eyeglasses with an anti-UV coating.
- Visit you ophthalmologist for regular eye check-ups.