A cataract is when the lens in the eye becomes cloudy. So what is the lens? The lens is located in the front and middle of the eye and is a transparent, double-sided convex lens shaped like a magnifying glass. When some reasons lead to abnormal nutrient metabolism in the lens, the lens becomes cloudy instead of transparent, and this condition is called cataract.
There are many causes of cataracts, the most important of which is age, or what we usually call senile cataracts, and the higher the age, the greater the chance of such cataracts occurring. If the patient also suffers from metabolic diseases such as diabetes, the development of cataracts will occur earlier and faster than in the same age group. People who work outdoors for a long time or live in highland areas with strong UV rays can also develop cataracts earlier because their eyes receive stronger UV rays. Other common causes include traumatic cataracts caused by eye trauma, and complicating cataracts caused by eye inflammation or fundus disease.
What does it feel like to have a cataract?
Patients feel a cloud or a fixed black spot in front of their eyes and have progressive, painless vision loss, or they may experience increased myopia or discomfort with double vision in one eye.
What should I do if I have a cataract?
For early stage cataracts, the development can be inhibited by medication. For patients who have developed cataract to a certain degree, the only way to solve the problem is through surgery. The most commonly used surgical procedure is “cataract ultrasonic emulsion aspiration combined with IOL implantation”, which is safe and effective. If you are suffering from cataract or experiencing discomfort such as vision loss, we recommend you to go to the hospital in time to receive appropriate treatment and regular follow-up.