Cataracts

Cataracts 

Cataracts are capacities of the lens inside the eye. They may be congenital or acquired. Cataracts are responsible for 20 million cases of blindness worldwide.

Congenital cataracts

These are often seen when the mother has had a viral infection, commonly rubella, especially between the 9th and 12th week of pregnancy.

Acquired cataracts

These may be due to:

Old age: This is the commonest form of cataract and the main cause of blindness around the world. It is not often seen be fore the age of 40 but then becomes increasingly common.

Diabetes: Constantly high blood sugar can damage the lens. Diabetes that is not well controlled will make this more likely. It may be seen in younger patients.

Trauma: A cataract can develop following an injury.

Signs and symptoms

There is no pain. Patients with age-related cataract will complain of poor vision that is slowly getting worse.

Treatment

• The patient is referred  for surgical removal of the lens under local or general anesthetic. The best method of surgery is to have artificial lens placed inside the eye. Alternatively, spectacles will to be worn after the operation.
• Following surgery, steroid/antibiotic drops are instilled for about 2 weeks.
• Patients should be advised not to lift heavy objects which could increase pressure withing the eye.
• They should return in 6-8 weeks (or when the surgeon advises) to have their eyes tested and collect spectacles if necessary.