Cataract it represents the gradual loss of transparency of the lens, so that light can no longer penetrate to the retina. As a result, vision begins to be affected. Once detected, cataracts need immediate treatment because otherwise they can progress rapidly, spreading to the unaffected eye and thus leading to complete vision loss.
symptoms
As the lens becomes opaque, various symptoms begin to appear, such as the perception of doubled or blurred images, a pronounced discomfort in contact with light (photophobia), impaired night vision. Also, near vision becomes considerably better, but there are difficulties with distance vision.
In the case of people who wear glasses, they will feel the need to change their lenses more and more often, mistaking the cataract for the rapid increase in diopters. As vision becomes progressively weaker, the comfort of everyday life will also be affected. Patients will have increasing difficulties in carrying out their daily activities.
CAUSE
In most cases, cataracts appear with age, but it can also be a complication of certain conditions (diabetes) or a result of an eyeball injury. However, there are a number of factors that can increase a person's risk of developing this disease.
The main risk factor is genetic, with cataracts being more prevalent among those with a family history of the disease. Other factors include prolonged exposure to the sun or radiation, an unhealthy lifestyle, habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol, taking corticosteroids, but also cardiovascular problems (hypertension) or weight problems.
DIAGNOSTIC
The condition can be easily diagnosed by the ophthalmologist following a clinical examination and a discussion with the patient about the symptoms experienced. Other methods that can help make a correct diagnosis include the visual acuity test, where the patient will read numbers and letters of different sizes on a panel, using a microscope to examine the eye, and checking the retina in detail.
TREATMENT
The evolution of the disease cannot be stopped, but there is a solution to restore the patient's sight. This solution involves an operation on the lens, through which it is replaced with an artificial one. The intervention is easy and requires only local anesthesia, the lens being replaced in just a few minutes.
PREVENTION
In many cases, cataracts can be difficult to prevent. But what can be done is to try to avoid as much as possible the risk factors associated with the appearance of the condition.
Therefore, a more balanced lifestyle is recommended, based on a healthy diet, regular consumption of water and liquids, without tobacco and alcohol.
It is also recommended to wear sunglasses with UV protection, so that the eyes do not suffer during the summer.
Last but not least, periodic eye examinations are very important. Thus, any condition can be diagnosed in time.
