Cataract
Cataract is a condition that causes clouding of the eye’s lens, resulting in blurred or distorted vision. The
lens is a transparent, curved structure that focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye. Cataracts occur
when proteins in the lens clump together and cause it to become cloudy. This can affect how much light is focused
into the eye and how well you can see. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in adults over the age of 40,
and they affect more than 24 million people in the United States alone.
What happens when Cataract occurs?
Cataracts cause vision to become increasingly blurred or distorted. There may be a decrease in color saturation
or contrast, double vision, halos or glare around lights, and difficulty seeing at night. If the cataract becomes
severe, it can cause total blindness in the affected eye.
Which treatments are available for Cataract?
The only way to treat cataracts is to surgically remove the affected lens and replace it with an artificial one.
This is a relatively safe and straightforward procedure that is usually performed on an outpatient basis. The
surgery typically takes less than half an hour and is done under local anesthesia. The procedure involves making a
small incision in the eye and removing the damaged lens, then inserting an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) in its
place.
What exams can detect Cataract?
Cataracts can be detected during a comprehensive eye exam. Your optometrist or ophthalmologist will use a slit
lamp to observe the lens and check for signs of clouding. They may also use a technique called retinoscopy to
measure how much light is passing through the lens. Additional tests, such as a visual acuity test and a contrast
sensitivity test, may also be performed to assess the severity of the cataract.
What are the causes for Cataract?
The exact cause of cataracts is unknown. However, there are several risk factors that can increase your chances
of developing cataracts. These include age, smoking, excessive ultraviolet light exposure, diabetes, certain
medications, eye surgery, and other diseases.
What research about Cataract exists?
Researchers are continually working to better understand cataracts and develop new treatments. Scientists have
developed new IOLs that can correct astigmatism and presbyopia, as well as new surgical techniques that make the
procedure safer.
Cataract research focuses on understanding the causes, prevention, and treatment of this sight-threatening
condition. Research studies have identified risk factors for cataract development, developed new surgical
techniques and technologies, and identified potential treatments, such as nutritional supplements and
medications.
Researchers are continuing to investigate the role of genetics in cataract development, as well as the role of
environmental factors, such as ultraviolet radiation and smoking. Clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate the
safety and efficacy of new medications for the treatment of cataracts.
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