Cataract Surgery

Cataracts

Cataracts cause reversible blindness in more than 17 million people worldwide making cataracts the leading cause of visual impairment in the world.

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens. The lens focuses light onto the retins at the back of the eye. The lens also adjusts the eye's focus, letting us see things clearly both up close and far away.

 

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The lens is mostly made of water and protein. The protein is arranged in a manner that keeps the lens clear and allows light to pass through it. As we mature, some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud part of the lens. This is a cataract, and over a period of time, it can grow larger and cloud more and more of the lens, making it harder to see.

Cataracts are classified into three types:

• A nuclear cataract is most commonly seen as it forms. This cataract forms in the center of the lens, and is due to natural aging changes.
   
• A cortical cataract, appears  from the outside of the lens to the center. Many diabetics develop this typle of cataract.
   
• A subcapsular cataract begins at the back of the lens. People with diabetes or people who take high doses of steroids may develop a subcapsular cataract.

Were you aware that more than half of all Americans over the age of 65 have cataracts?  A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye that can impair vision.  mmpc Ophthalmology would like to take this opportunity to get the word out that cataracts are both treatable and preventable.   



There are four types of cataracts, as follows: 


• Age-related cataracts. As the name suggests, this type of cataract develops as a result of aging.
• Congenital cataracts.  Babies are sometimes born with cataracts, due to infection in the womb, or they may develop during childhood.
• Secondary cataracts. These may develop as a result of other diseases, like diabetes, or long-term exposure to toxic substances, certain medications (such as corticosteroids or diuretics), ultraviolet light, and radiation.
• Traumatic cataracts. These can form after injury to the eye.
 


People are at an increased risk of developing cataracts if they smoke, are exposed to air pollution, or consume heavy amounts of alcohol. 


What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts? 


Cataracts often form slowly and cause few symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include: 


• Double or blurred vision, or vision that is cloudy, foggy, or filmy
• Sensitivity to light and glare (which may make night driving difficult
• Less vivid perception of color  (especially yellow)
• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
• Sudden nearsightedness.
 


How are Cataracts Diagnosed? 


Your ophthalmologist will perform tests, including an eye exam.  S/he will also dilate your pupil to examine your eyes.  Remember to wear your glasses or contacts to the appointment. 

How are Cataracts Treated? 


A new eyeglass prescription may be appropriate, depending upon the severity of cataracts.  Also, you may be a candidate for cataract surgery, which involves replacement of the clouded lens of the eye with a clear, plastic lens.  Cataract surgery is usually conducted on an outpatient basis and is usually successful in restoring vision. In fact, it is the most frequently performed surgery in the U.S., with more than 1.5 million cataract surgeries done each year. Better than nine out of 10 people who have cataract surgery have improvement in vision.  Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you. 



Can Cataracts Be Prevented? 


The exact cause of cataracts is uncertain.  However, because they are so common in older adults, it's important to have your eyes examined on a regular basis. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, people aged 40 to 64 should have their eyes checked every 2 – 4 years, depending on health.  Regular eye exams are the key to early detection.   


If you're over age 65, schedule eye exams at least every other year. Although most cataracts occur with age and can't be avoided altogether, you can take steps to help slow or possibly prevent the development of cataracts:  


• Don't smoke. Smoking produces free radicals, increasing your risk of cataracts.
• Eat a balanced diet. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables may have a modest effect in preventing cataract development
• Protect yourself from the sun. Ultraviolet light may contribute to the development of cataracts. Whenever possible, wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet B (UVB) rays when you're outdoors.
• Take care of other health problems. Follow your treatment plan if you have diabetes or other medical conditions. If you have a chronic illness, it's especially important that you take other preventive steps, such as wearing UVB-blocking sunglasses when outdoors and not smoking.
 


Research continues to explore new ways to prevent and treat cataracts, such as developing medications that would reduce or eliminate the need for surgery. But, until such a treatment exists, your chances of fully restoring your vision with cataract surgery are excellent if you have no other eye diseases.  



mmpc’s ophthalmologist, Marko Habekovic, MD, understands the importance of treating cataracts.  Set up an eye appointment by calling (616) 464-2890.