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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.
Other articles of interest on the Glasses2you web site:
A
brief history of spectacles | Designer
glasses | Glasses
| Glasses Direct
| Glasses
for computer work | Guide
to buying glasses online | Reading
Glasses
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