What are Cataracts?

Cataracts Meaning

Any opacity and cloudiness that develops in the crystalline lens of the eyes are considered as cataracts. Cataracts are not formed on the eyes. It is formed within the eyes. Most people would think that a cataract is a film that grows on the eyes which causes unclear images or sometimes double vision.

The eye lens is enclosed in a capsule. As the old cells die, it is trapped inside the capsule. As time passes the cell will eventually build up causing the eye lens to cloud, thus making images hazy and undistinguished. It is one of the major causes of visual loss among adult who are over 55 in the whole world.

Symptoms Of Cataracts

Cataracts at first are small, is has a very small effect of your sight at first. Its first symptom is that your vision will be blurred a little. Its symptoms depend on the location of the cataract on the lens and the cloudiness of the cataract.

The most common symptoms are blurred visions, colors seem to appear faded, poor night vision and sensitivity to bright lights. The type of cataract will also affect what symptoms you will be experiencing.

Nuclear cataracts first symptom is the improvement of your near vision. However this improvement will be short-lived and finally will disappear as the cataract deteriorates. Subcapsular cataracts do not have any symptoms until it has fully developed.

Causes Of Cataracts

Experts say that as we age the eye lens changes, forming cataracts. Experts are progressively distinguishing the factors that cause cataracts. Studies shows, that too much exposure to ultraviolet light is connected with the development of cataracts.

They recommend that wearing sunglasses or wide brimmed hat will minimize the exposure of ultraviolet light. Further studies also show that individuals who are diabetic and users of major tranquilizers, diuretics and steroids tend to be at high risk of developing cataracts.

Smoking, air pollution and alcohol abuse are also incorporated in the risk factors. Eating foods that are rich in salt puts you on high risk of cataract development.

Cataracts Treatment

Diets high in antioxidants (beta-carotene, selenium and vitamin C and vitamin E) helps prevent cataract development. If symptoms start to show you may be able to enhance your eyesight with appropriate lighting, glasses, magnifying glass, strong bifocals and other visual aids.

If your vision deteriorates badly and impairs your daily activities such as reading, working or driving, you should consider having your cataract removed by surgery.

Cataract surgery is the most efficient way of restoring your vision. In fact, cataract surgery is one of the most successful surgery procedures in the United States. An average or nine out of ten patients who undergo cataract surgery regain with a very good vision.

There are two types of cataract surgery procedure. These are the phacoemulsification and the extracapsular surgery. Ask your ophthalmologist for the type of cataract surgery procedure that would be best for you.