Cataract
What is a cataract?
Cataract are identified as cloudy areas in the lens of the eye, which, in healthy eyes, should appear completely clear. The foggy area disrupts the light entering the eye, affecting vision quality. Catarat can develop from around 40 years old but are more common in people over 60, with about 50% of 80-year-olds experiencing cataract symptoms.
What are the symptoms of cataract?
- Cloudy vision
- Spots in your vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Poor night vision
- Colour vision may deteriorate
What causes cataract?
A cataract is part of ageing, but certain factors can accelerate the onset. These include smoking, poor diet, diabetes, certain drugs such as steroids used as long-term medication, eye surgery or injuries, radiation treatment and extended periods in the sun or under UV light without wearing eye protection. As proteins break down in the watery part of the eye during ageing, the lingering proteins can create a cloudy appearance.
How is a cataract diagnosed?
Our Ophthalmic Consultants at The Hamptons Hospital can diagnose if you have a cataract, although you may have been advised you have it during an eye examination or through your GP.
What is the treatment for cataract?
The only way to fully treat a cataract is through a routine procedure where the cloudy lens is removed, and an artificial lens is put in its place. This procedure usually takes 20 -30 minutes, and patients can go home the same day.
How long is the recovery from cataract surgery?
The eye can feel sore, itchy and look red following surgery which will settle within one week. Patients are asked to wear an eye shield for the first 1 – 2 weeks, and by day 10 – 14, clear eyesight should be restored. Full results can take between 4- 6 weeks.
