Cataracts in Adults

Cataracts are a common age-related medical condition that affects the eyes of adults. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye that affects vision.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Aging: The most significant risk factor for developing cataracts is increasing age.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk of developing cataracts.
• Family history: Having a family history of cataracts increases the risk.
• Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation: UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds can increase the risk of cataract development.
• Certain medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can increase the risk of cataracts.
• Trauma to the eye: A blow to the eye can cause a cataract to develop.

Symptoms

• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Double vision or ghosting
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Fading or yellowing of colors
• Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions

Types of Cataracts

• Nuclear cataract: This type of cataract affects the center of the lens and is the most common type.
• Cortical cataract: This type of cataract affects the outer layer of the lens and is characterized by white, wedge-like opacities that start in the periphery of the lens and work their way to the center.
• Posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC): This type of cataract starts as a small, opaque area that usually forms in the back of the lens, right in the path of light.

Diagnosis

Cataracts are typically diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. The exam may include:

• Visual acuity test: To assess the sharpness and clarity of vision.
• Dilated eye exam: To examine the lens and other structures in the eye.
• Slit-lamp examination: To examine the lens and other structures in the eye under high magnification.

Treatment

The primary treatment for cataracts is surgery. There are several types of cataract surgery, including:

• Phacoemulsification: This is the most common type of cataract surgery and involves breaking up the cloudy lens with ultrasonic waves and suctioning it out.
• Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE): This type of surgery involves removing the cloudy lens in one piece through a larger incision.
• Laser-assisted cataract surgery: This type of surgery uses a laser to make precise incisions and break up the cloudy lens.

Prevention

While it is not possible to completely prevent cataracts, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk:

• Wear sunglasses with UV protection when outdoors.
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Get regular eye exams to monitor for cataract development.

Complications

Cataracts can lead to several complications if left untreated, including:

• Blindness: Untreated cataracts can cause complete vision loss.
• Increased risk of falls and injuries: Cataracts can increase the risk of falls and injuries due to impaired vision.
• Decreased quality of life: Cataracts can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.