Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataracts refer to the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurred vision, decreased visual clarity, and difficulty seeing in dim light. These changes often occur gradually and can affect one or both eyes. Cataracts develop due to various factors, including aging, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, certain medical conditions (such as diabetes), smoking, and eye trauma. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial lens implant, restoring clear vision. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management of cataracts.

Symptoms of cataracts encompass various visual disturbances, including:

• Double vision of objects
• Halos around objects, especially in bright light
• Optical distortions
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Dizziness
• Increased visual disturbances at night, while driving, reading, writing, sewing, or engaging in tasks involving small details.

As cataracts progress, vision gradually deteriorates, impacting one’s ability not only to read but also to recognize faces and objects.

The progression of cataracts is an individual process, typically taking anywhere from 4 to 15 years on average. Initially, during the early stages, individuals may not experience pain or significant discomfort, and their visual acuity may remain relatively stable. However, as the opacity of the lens advances and interferes with the refraction of light, vision deteriorates noticeably over time.

Cataracts are classified into several stages based on their impact on vision: initial, immature, and mature. Cataract surgery can be performed at any stage of cataract development. However, it is most commonly recommended when the cataract reaches the immature stage. At the initial stage, measures can still be taken to potentially prevent further progression of the cataract.

During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear, artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure restores clear vision by replacing the clouded lens with the IOL, which becomes a permanent part of the eye. In some rare instances, such as when other eye or systemic conditions are present, implantation of an artificial lens may not be feasible.

Disclaimer