Cataract

Cataract is one of the most common eye diseases and is often associated by patients with deteriorating vision. Many people consult an ophthalmologist with vision problems, suspecting this condition.

What is cataract?

Cataract is the clouding of the eye's lens, which in most cases develops gradually, leading to declining vision quality. The clouded lens does not properly transmit light, resulting in blurry and unclear vision.

Symptoms of cataract

Symptoms of cataract may include:

• Blurred vision – the patient sees as if through fog,
• Night vision problems – especially while driving,
• Sensitivity to light – particularly to bright sunlight or car headlights,
• Double vision in one eye,
• Frequent need to change glasses or lenses, as the prescription becomes inadequate.

Causes of cataract and risk factors

Cataract can have various causes and is associated with the following risk factors:

• Age – the most common cause, cataract associated with aging,
• Genetic factors – susceptibility to cataract can be hereditary,
• Eye injuries – can lead to traumatic cataract,
• Use of certain medications – e.g., prolonged use of steroids,
• UV radiation exposure – prolonged exposure to sunlight without eye protection,
• Smoking – increases the risk of cataract,
• Coexisting conditions, such as diabetes.

Types of cataract

Several types of cataract are distinguished:

• Age-related cataract – the most common, developing with age,
• Traumatic cataract – caused by eye injuries,
• Congenital cataract – present from birth or develops in early childhood,
• Secondary cataract – occurs as a result of other eye diseases, such as glaucoma, or after eye surgeries.

Diagnostic process

To diagnose cataract, an ophthalmologist conducts detailed examinations, which include:

• Visual acuity test – to determine how well the patient sees,
• Fundus examination – assessment of the retina and optic nerve,
• Intraocular pressure measurement – to rule out other conditions, such as glaucoma,
• Slit lamp examination – allows a detailed view of the eye's structure, including the lens.

Treatment of cataract

The only effective method of treating cataract is surgery, which involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one. This procedure restores clear vision. The surgery is:

• Safe and quick – usually lasts a few minutes,
• Performed under local anesthesia,
• Associated with low risk of complications.

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed ophthalmic procedures worldwide. After thorough examination and consultation with the patient, the ophthalmologist decides on the surgery.

Secondary cataract and laser procedure

Sometimes, after cataract surgery, secondary clouding of the posterior lens capsule can occur, leading to vision deterioration in the operated eye. In such cases, a short, safe laser procedure (ND:YAG laser) is performed to remove the clouding.

At OcuMedica, we perform ND:YAG laser procedures to remove clouded posterior lens capsules. The procedure takes about 5 minutes, is performed under local anesthesia, and the patient can leave the clinic within 30 minutes. We recommend that patients avoid driving until the end of the day after the procedure.

Recommendations after cataract surgery

After cataract surgery, it is recommended to:

• Avoid lifting heavy objects for a few weeks,
• Use prescribed eye drops regularly as directed by the doctor,
• Avoid touching the operated eye,
• Wear sunglasses outdoors.

Cataract prevention

Although cataract cannot be fully prevented, there are several ways to reduce the risk:

• Wear sunglasses with UV protection,
• Healthy diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E,
• Quit smoking,
• Regular eye examinations – at least once every two years, and annually after the age of 60.

Cost and availability of surgery

Cataract surgery is available both privately and under the National Health Fund (NFZ). In private clinics, the procedure can be performed faster, but it is a paid option. Under NFZ, the surgery is reimbursed, but the waiting time may be longer.

Attention!

There can be many causes of vision deterioration, so it is important to consult an ophthalmologist promptly. Early identification of the cause of vision problems is key to effective treatment and recovery.