Will everyone get cataracts, eventually yes! The most common denominator for cataract formation or development is aging. This usually happens after 60 years of age. However, in a small proportion of patients, cataracts may develop in babies or young children – congenital cataracts. Sometimes, cataracts may develop earlier certain groups of patients as below:
- Known ocular disease: Some eye conditions such as uveitis or inflammatory eye disease can lead to early cataract formation, usually as a consequence of steroid use. High myopia or short sightedness is also associated with early cataract development.
- Systemic conditions: Patients with medical conditions such as diabetes or myotonic dystrophy will develop earlier cataracts.
- Social factors: Smoking is well known to cause early cataract.
- Trauma: If an eye has had an injury before, this can lead to early cataract formation.
- Surgery: Eye operations such as vitrectomy performed for retina pathologies such as retina detachment, epiretinal membrane or macular holes can also cause early cataract formation-for example, cataracts usually develop approximately 2 years following vitrectomy.
- Genetic: This may be due to hereditary factors with genetic predisposition to early cataract formation.
Symptoms of Cataract
Cataracts may be classified to early, moderate, brunescent or white cataracts, the latter two signifying severe cases and vision will be compromised. In the earlier stage, cataract may not cause any symptoms. Most people above the age of 40 will have a mild degree of cataract but are totally asymptomatic.
Cataracts take years to progress, and as cataracts progress, it may cause a change in the glasses or contact lens prescription – worsening myopia/short-sightedness. Some patients may report an increase in glare or halos, noted first at night or decreased contrast.
As cataracts worsen or progress, patients will report worsening of vision. There will come a time when glasses will no longer correct the vision – this is usually when opticians will refer patients for cataract surgery.
Types of Cataract: Different Types Have Different Symptoms
- Nuclear sclerotic: This is the most common type of cataract and may cause worsening of myopia. It is usually described as mild, moderate or severe clinically. Your doctors may call it NS + 2+ or brunescent, which is brown cataracts signifying dense hard cataracts.
- Cortical: Cortical cataracts usually develop in patients who have diabetes and is more common in black and minority ethnic patients. Patients first present with worsening night vision.
- Post subcapsular: This cataract is mostly on the posterior aspect of the lens and can progress very quickly. Patients usually get surprised by the ‘sudden’ worsening of their vision. This is associated with the use of steroids.
- Posterior polar: These cataracts typically are evident from a very young age and present in both eyes. They almost always have a weakness in the supporting capsule of the lens and are associated with higher risks of surgery.
Can Cataracts Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, studies have not shown successful intervention in preventing cataracts.
A large study in the USA known as the “Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS)” which recruited almost 4,000 patients, which looked at vitamin and mineral supplement intake and reduction of development of cataract did not find positive results. The study did not show any benefit in taking any vitamin or mineral supplements for the prevention of cataract.
As we know, smoking is a risk factor to early cataract development. We can advise patients to cut down or quit smoking, both for its negative health effects and possibility of reducing risk of cataract (and AMD) development. Optimising diabetic control may also help to delay the onset of cataracts.
How is Cataract Surgery Performed?
Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed under local anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety. During the surgery, the cloudy lens is gently fragmented and removed using a technique called phacoemulsification, which involves the use of ultrasonic energy to break down the lens material.
Once the cataract is removed, a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in its place to restore vision. The choice of IOL depends on factors such as the patient’s visual needs, lifestyle preferences, and any pre-existing ocular conditions (e.g., astigmatism).
Cataract surgeries with advanced technology such as phacoemulsification are much safer these days. Don’t let cataracts diminish your quality of life or limit your visual potential.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive consultation and take the first step towards achieving clearer vision and a brighter future. With our advanced technology, personalised care, and experienced surgical team, clear vision awaits you!
