Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding in the lens of the eye which sits behind the pupil.

The lens is made up of water and proteins and should be clear so as to let light through. But as we get older this protein can clump together causing a cloud or a cataract. The cataract may get bigger and thicker as we age further making it harder to see through.

There are three type of cataract:

Cortical cataract – This occurs in the cortex of the lens and spreads from the outer lens towards the center like spokes on a wheel It is quite common in diabetics.

Nuclear cataract – The most common form and occurs in the Centrex of the lens as we age. They can take years to develop

Sub capsular cataract – Starts at the back of the lens. And again can occur in people with diabetes and people taking high levels of steroids. The onset can be rapid.

The primary cause of cataracts is ageing although other conditions such as diabetes, myotonic dystrophy, or Wilson’s disease increase the risk for cataracts, regardless of age.

In the early stages, prescription glasses or stronger prescriptions will improve your vision, but ultimately you will have to consider surgery. Surgery on cataracts is one of the most common operations undertaken and very successful. The surgeon will remove your clouded lens and usually replace it with a clear plastic lens, dramatically improving your vision.

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