Health Corner

What is cataract? Is not seeing things clearly a sign of cataract?
Cataract is the gradual clouding of the lens inside the eye.

Why do I have cataract?
There are many causes for cataract formation, including genetic and congenital factors. Other causes such as trauma, inflammation, metabolic diseases, and medications can also lead to cataract. However, cataract is most common in the elderly due to aging, as the lens gradually deteriorates, hardens, and becomes cloudy. Diseases like diabetes can also cause cataract to appear earlier.

Although cataract is less common in younger populations, those with habits like smoking or drinking, high myopia, diabetes, long-term use of corticosteroids, prolonged sun exposure, or chronic iritis may develop cataract earlier than average.

Is not seeing things clearly a sign of cataract?
Common symptoms include gradually blurred vision, sometimes seeing halos around lights, and colors appearing less vibrant. When driving at night, headlights from oncoming cars may seem glaring and uncomfortable. Generally, the worsening of symptoms is quite slow and depends on the location of the cloudiness in the lens and its progression.

Early-stage cataract patients may not have any signs, but as the condition worsens, patients may notice:

• Blurred vision
• Decreased contrast in images
• Yellowish or darkened views
• Unstable or suddenly worsening myopia
• Halos around lights at night, with light points spreading into a ring or radiating hexagonal rays.

Is surgery the only treatment for cataract?
As of now, the medical field has not developed effective medications to stop cataract growth. The primary treatment method is surgical removal of the cloudy lens. The most common technique today is "minimally invasive" cataract surgery, which typically takes 10-15 minutes and is mostly performed under local anesthesia.

• Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery
  This technique uses ultrasound to break up and remove the cataract (phacoemulsification), and then an artificial lens is implanted in its original position. The benefits are minimal incisions, and most cases do not require stitches. Once the surgery is completed, the doctor ensures the incision is secure, applies ointment, and the patient can go home.
• Artificial Lens
  After cataract surgery, patients often opt for an artificial lens implant in the eye. Most patients can restore vision without needing additional lenses. However, the risk of postoperative complications, such as inflammation and glaucoma, slightly increases. Additionally, if there are other eye diseases, such as high myopia or iritis, it may not be suitable to implant an artificial lens.

How should I care for my eyes after cataract surgery?
In the initial recovery period after cataract surgery, it is important to rest in bed, ensuring the head and eyes get adequate rest to avoid affecting the surgical outcome. During recovery, consume nutritious and easily digestible foods. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables to prevent constipation. Alcohol and irritating or hard foods should be avoided. Be careful to prevent water from entering the eyes while washing hair. Use medications as prescribed by the doctor and attend follow-up appointments until fully healed.