Cataract

Overview

Cataract is a patch of opaqueness or cloudiness which developes in the lens of the eye. In a normal person, eye lens should be clear. Most cases develop gradually and patients' vision declines with time.

Signs and Symptoms

Clouded or blurred vision, Double vision, Vision problems at night, Decreased ability to see in bright light, Seeing halos around light, Difficulty in recognising faces or viewing the television

Common Causes

Increasing age, Excessive exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds, Diabetes especially if blood glucose levels are not well-controlled, Eye diseases such as glaucoma and long-term uveitis, Eye surgery such as vitrectomy, Eye injury, Congenital cataract, Long-term use of corticosteroid medications, Frequent exposure of the head to x-rays or other sources of radiation, Family history of cataract at a young age

Risk Factors

Increasing age, Excessive exposure to ultraviolet light, Diabetes, High blood pressure, Obesity, Smoking, Excessive alcohol intake, Prolonged used of medications containing corticosteroids, Previous eye problems or injury, Previous eye surgery, Family history

Investigation Techniques

Medical history and symptoms review, Visual acuity test using a snellen chart, Slit-lamp examination to examine the structures at the front of the eyes, Retinal examination to examine the back of the eyes

Treatment and Prevention

Cataract can be prevented by having regular eye screening, management of other health issues, maintaining a healthy diet, quitting your smoking habit, limiting alcohol intake, New prescription glasses, Cataract surgery,