 CATARACTWhen the lens of the eye turns cloudy enough to impair vision, it is considered a cataract. Cataracts are the main cause of blindness worldwide. Four out of ten persons over 60 years old develop cataracts. Treatment consists of a safe and simple surgical procedure. How do cataracts lead to blindness? The lens of the eye is the structure in charge of focusing objects at different distances from the eye. It is capable of changing its shape to do so. With time, the lens looses its transparency turning opaque. At this moment it is called a cataract. Light is not able to reach the retina and vision diminishes even to the point of blindness. Click the green button several times to see this process.
Who is at higher risk of developing cataracts? There are different kinds of cataracts; the most common of which are senile cataracts. These develop in people over 50 years of age. The lens looses its transparency due to damage to its fibers with time. This is because lens fibers are not replaced throughout life but instead new layers are added continuously. Ultraviolet light (sunlight), free radicals and oxidizing agents have been connected to age related cataract formation. Which are the symptoms of cataract? The main symptom is gradual loss of vision. Colors may look dimmer and poor night vision is frequent. Cataracts do not cause itching, tearing or headaches. What are the treatment options for cataracts? There is presently no drug that can restore the lens' transparency. Eyeglasses don't help since rays of light will not be able to go through the lens anyway. The only way to treat cataracts is by surgically removing them. There are different types of cataract surgery, being phacoemulsification the safest and most effective. Clínica Reinoso - Colombia WARNING! The information and/or responses in this eye care education service are not intended to replace consultation with an ophthalmologist. This service contains general eye care information only. Only a doctor can diagnose and treat a medical condition. In NO CASE will Clínica Reinoso or any doctor or sponsor be held liable for any decisions you may make upon reliance of such information. Updated: February 20, 2000 |