Good vision is a key factor for living a healthy and happy life. However, in a certain time every one has to face different kinds of vision problems. A cataract is a clouding of the natural clear lens of the eye that focuses the light entering the eye onto the retina. This cloudiness can cause a decrease in vision. There are several types of cataracts including age related, traumatic and metabolic. Most researchers believe that the majority of cataracts in the population are age-related. Symptoms of cataracts often don’t appear at once but instead develop over time, with a gradual decline in vision that cannot be corrected with glasses.
Common symptoms may include:
• Blurred or dim vision
• Glare and halos around lights
• Difficulty reading in dim light, including poor night vision.
• Loss of contrast sensitivity
• Increasing near-sightedness or change in refractive status.
• occasionally double vision.
Other additional risk factors for developing cataracts include diabetes, use of steroids, common medications to treat conditions like arthritis and lupus. previous eye surgery, ultra violet radiation, use of alcohol and smoking. Many studies link smoke exposure and smoking are associated with significantly higher risk of cataracts.
Cataracts generally develop in both eyes, but not always at the same time. One eye may be worse than the other, causing a difference in vision between eyes. Worldwide, cataracts are the number one cause of preventable blindness.
Cataract treatment is based on the level of visual impairment. When the cataracts are mild, one may be able to improve his vision with updated glasses or improved lighting conditions. However, when cataracts progress further and begin to significantly affect the vision, there is need to checkup from an ophthalmologist. Otherwise over time, cataracts become worse. If left untreated, cataracts will eventually cause total blindness. There is no medical treatment to prevent the development or progression of cataracts. When a cataract progresses to the point that it affects a person's ability to do normal everyday tasks, surgery may be needed. Fortunately, cataract surgery is one of the most common, safest eye surgeries in the world. The technology behind cataract surgery has come a long way and is now done using lasers and without any stitches. This surgical procedure results in proper vision in the vast majority of patients. Complications after cataract surgery are rare. During cataract surgery, the natural lens, which has developed into a cataract, is removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant. There are variety of artificial lens implant options, the ophthalmologist can decide the best options according to the need of patient. The artificial lens requires no care and can significantly improve vision. Once a cataract is removed, it cannot grow back.
To slow the development of cataracts it is generally recommended to eat balanced diet. Researchers have linked eye friendly nutrients such as lutein, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc to reducing the risk of certain eye diseases. Prevent excessive exposure to ultra violet (UV) radiation by using good quality UV blocking sunglasses, hat or other sun protection that can minimize exposure to UV rays. Specially during high-risk activities, such as while performing home repairs, yard work and during certain other work activities. Avoid or quiet smoking. If diabetic closely control blood sugar levels .Vision problems can occur at any age, which is why regular eye examination can help with the early detection and treatment of different eye conditions.