Cataracts
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The Signs, Symptoms and Causes of Cataracts
Cataracts are a condition which affects the
eye.
The eyes have a natural lens made up mostly of
water and protein. This lens is found behind the pupil and the
iris and is very similar to the lens of a camera because it
focuses light onto the retina. It is also what allows the eye
to adjust and focus so you can see things clearly at all
distances.
Cataracts are described as a clouding which
forms over this natural lens. Sometimes as a person ages the
protein that makes up this lens begins to clump together
causing this part of the lens to become cloudy. Over time the
clouding can spread and cover more of the lens making it very
difficult to see.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts normally develop gradually over a
long period of time. This is one reason it may be difficult to
notice the symptoms right at first. However, there are several
symptoms that are associated with cataracts that you can be
aware of. They are listed below.
Cataract symptoms:
• Blurry or hazy vision
• Items look cloudy
• Lights seem to glare or be extra bright
• Double vision
• Colors become more dull looking
The symptoms you experience will depend on the
type of cataracts you have. You may notice that you need to
change your glasses often when a cataract is developing which
may also be a warning sign.
Types of Cataracts
Studies have determined that there are three
different types of cataracts, they are as follows:
1. Cortical Cataract – This type forms in
the cortex of the lens and then slowly moves towards the
outside of the lens. It is usually caused by being
diabetic.
2. Nuclear Cataract – This type is the
most common and starts in the nucleus or center of the lens. It
is usually caused by ageing.
3. Subcapsular Cataract – This type will
start at the back of the lens and is usually found in people
with retinitis pigmentosa, diabetes and farsightedness. It
sometimes occurs in people that have taken very high doses of
steroids as well.
It is important to know that the symptoms you
experience will be based on the type of cataracts that you
have. For example, a person may experience an improvement in
their sight when they first start developing a nuclear
cataract. This improvement is referred to as “second sight” but
it only last for a very short period of time.
The nuclear cataract comes on slowly with age
and you may not have any symptoms at all with the subcapsular
cataract until after it is well-developed. If you suspect that
you have a cataract, you shoudl see your doctor right
away.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a simple, painless
procedure, and can significantly improve a patient's vision.
The eye surgeon makes an extremely small incision and inserts a
tiny instrument, that breaks up and gently removes your cloudy
lens. The cloudy lens is rep[lace with a clear, artificial
lens. Cataract surgery is safe and substantially improves
vision for more than 9 patients out of 10.
 Learn more about cataracts
and your eyes
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