A cataract is a prevalent eye ailment that affects many people in South Africa. It is the most common reason people over forty in this nation become blind, making it the leading cause of blindness. Cataracts may develop gradually or emerge suddenly, depending on the underlying reason. They may affect one eye or both eyes, and those over 60 are more likely to have them. Cataracts are a common eye condition that results in impaired vision and happens when the usually transparent eye lens gets opaque. This clouded lens either blocks or distorts the light that enters the eye, ultimately resulting in a loss of vision. To prevent or treat cataracts, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the condition’s signs and symptoms, its potential causes and risk factors, diagnosis, and consequences.
The signs of cataracts might change depending on the extent of the ailment. Cataracts can make it difficult to see. Here are some examples of symptoms that happen often:
Age is the leading contributor to the development of cataracts. The proteins cause cloudiness in the eye’s lens that begins to degrade and clump together as a natural consequence of ageing. Additional factors that might lead to cataracts are as follows:
A person’s likelihood of having cataracts has several variables, including the following:
A complete eye exam, which includes a visual field test, pupil dilation, and a slit lamp, is the best way to identify cataracts. During this portion of the exam, the ophthalmologist will evaluate the cataract’s severity and check for any cloudiness in the lens. Cataracts may lead to several complications, including:
Surgical removal of the affected lens and implantation of an artificial lens is the only method currently available for treating cataracts. Cataract surgery is a routine treatment conducted safely and usually outpatient. The operation lasts for around half an hour, and after that, most patients can resume their regular activities within a couple of days.