Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye.
Vision is foggy, colors appear pale and spatial vision also decreases.
Cataracts cannot be corrected with medication or glasses; surgery is required to restore clear vision.
In a healthy eye, the lens of the eye is clear; in the case of a cataract, the lens is cloudy and no longer transparent. In advanced cataracts, it is even possible to see the greyish color of the pupil, hence the name.
This is why those affected have the feeling of seeing everything through a veil, but the disease is easily curable.
The following symptoms occur with a cloudy lens
Different symptoms occur depending on the severity of the cataract.
The development of cataracts is a gradual process that over time creates an increasingly dense fog in front of the eyes.
However, there are also other symptoms that may indicate a cataract:
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Deteriorated visibility
- Spatial perception and orientation deteriorate
- Colors, contrasts and contours fade
Common causes of cataracts:
- Metabolic diseases (e.g. diabetes)
- Hereditary diseases and genetic predisposition
- Injuries to the eye
- Nutrient deficiency
- Eye inflammation
- Medication
- UV radiation
There are also different types of cataracts, which is why the symptoms can vary greatly.
Age-related cataract (Cataracta sensilis)
The ageing process is the main cause of cataracts as around 90 percent of all cataracts are actually age-related cataracts. Cataracts usually only occur after the age of 60. The metabolism of the lens of the eye slows down and the concentration of water decreases so that the lens hardens. Sunlight also leaves deposits over the years and can cause the lens to become cloudy.
Cataract in general diseases
A so-called secondary cataract can occur as a result of general or metabolic diseases.
Cataracts due to injuries
Cataracta traumatica is caused by an injury to the eye.
Triggered by a punch to the eye, a stab wound or a collision with a ball, the lens capsule can be damaged and a cataract can develop quickly.
Congenital cataract
A rubella disease in the mother during pregnancy can be a trigger for cataracts in small children or infants.
The treatment of cataracts
Cataracts are treated by replacing the cloudy lens with a clear, artificial lens. This is now a routine procedure and is used relatively frequently. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and the complication rate is low. To date, there are no other known treatment options that could prevent or delay cataracts.
Will I still need glasses after the treatment?
The likelihood of needing glasses after the operation is quite high. It is very possible that, despite treatment, you will still need glasses for both near and far vision. If the constant changing of glasses becomes tedious, you can also fall back on varifocals.
If you need new glasses after your operation or even before the operation, don't hesitate to come and see us or browse through our online store!