Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding of the lens that can cause problems with your vision. It may make the black pupil of the eye look grey or very pale.

The lens is located behind the coloured iris and its function is to help focus the light entering the eye.

The lens is made up of water and lens fibres, which let light pass through onto the retina. Sometimes some of the fibres change their structure and organisation and loose transparency. It prevents some light from reaching the retina and interferes with vision. This is a cataract.

In its early stages, a cataract may not cause any changes in vision. However, over time, it may affect a larger area, clouding more of the lens and making it harder to see.

Although scientists are investigating all the time, no one knows for sure what causes cataracts. It is generally thought to be hereditary, and that eye injuries, radiotherapy, diabetes and some drugs may play a part.

Some recognised risk factors however, include smoking or excessive drinking, diabetes and high exposure to sunlight. Cataracts are also known to be more common in women than men.

• Poor vision in the dark
• Blurred or cloudy eyesight
• Problems with light such as headlights that seem too bright at night; glare from lamps or very bright sunlight; or a halo around lights
• Colours may seem faded or distorted
• Double vision
• The need for frequent changes in spectacles or contact lenses It's worth noting that these symptoms can also be signs of other eye problems, so if you have any of these symptoms tell us during your eye examination.

In the early stages of cataract, eyesight may be improved with spectacles, the use of magnifying lenses, or stronger lighting.

But later, surgery may be the only effective treatment. This involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a new clear artificial lens. It's worth considering surgery when cataracts start to limit your everyday activities, such as driving, reading, or watching TV. You and your optometrist can make that decision together. If you decide on surgery, you will be referred back to your GP who will send you to a specialist. A lot of patients comment on their improved vision as they are being escorted back to their ward after their operation. Patients are usually expected to read and use their new vision within an hour of surgery. There is a very small infection risk, so normally only one eye at a time is operated on.

What happens during surgery?

When a patient enters the hospital, they are given eye drops to dilate the pupil and the area around the eye is washed. Around 85% of all cataract operations are now performed with local anaesthetic and surgeons are increasingly using eye drops to anaesthetise the eye instead of using an injection. Some patients may experience a mild stinging sensation but this only lasts around 10 seconds. The operation usually lasts less than an hour and is surprisingly pain-free. most patients can go home the same day, even if they live alone, but having someone with them while traveling is helpful, as they are not allowed to drive.

It's normal to feel itching and mild discomfort for a while after a cataract operation. The eye may be sensitive to light and touch. There could also be some discharge. After a few days, however, even moderate discomfort should disappear. For a few days after surgery, a patient may need to use eye drops or take pills to help with healing and any discomfort. They will also need to protect the eye.

Once home, the patient should take it easy for a couple of weeks but they can walk around, climb stairs, and do light chores. They should however avoid bending or lifting heavy objects, which can affect the pressure in the eye.

Patients will have to wash their hair leaning backwards and avoid eye make-up for a few weeks
Patients can quickly return to many everyday activities, but their sight may be blurred, as the healing eye needs time to focus properly with the other eye.

Their eye specialist will advise when they can return to work and resume driving. A change of spectacle prescription is usually required

If you have any concerns or questions about coping with cataracts, don't be afraid to ask we are here to help.