Cataract

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a condition in which the crystalline lens, the eye's natural lens, gradually becomes cloudy, reducing vision. It is very common after the age of 60. Diagnosis and treatment are the responsibility of the ophthalmologist; in this guide you will find the main information to recognise the signs and know what to expect.

Main symptoms

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Difficulty seeing at night and glare from headlights
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Double vision in one eye
• Needing to change your glasses prescription often
• Colours that look faded or yellowed

Causes

• Natural ageing of the lens (the most common cause)
• Prolonged exposure to UV rays
• Diabetes
• Eye injuries
• Prolonged use of certain medicines, such as corticosteroids
• Smoking
• Hereditary factors

Types of cataract

• Age-related: linked to age, it is the most common
• Congenital: present from birth
• Traumatic: caused by an eye injury
• Secondary: a consequence of other diseases or treatments

How it is diagnosed

The diagnosis is made by the ophthalmologist with a complete examination, which includes measuring visual acuity and examining the eye with a slit lamp.

During the eye test at Ottica Paoletti, if we notice signs that suggest a cataract, we will advise you to see an ophthalmologist.

Treatment

The only effective treatment is surgery, one of the most common and well-established operations:

• the cloudy lens is removed;
• an artificial lens (intraocular lens) is inserted;
• it is usually performed as a day case under local anaesthesia.

After surgery

• Use the eye drops prescribed by the ophthalmologist
• Do not rub the operated eye
• Protect your eyes from bright light
• Attend the scheduled follow-up visits

A few weeks after surgery, once the ophthalmologist gives the go-ahead, you usually need new glasses: often for reading or the computer, sometimes for distance too. That is the right time to come and see us.

Read also: eye care after surgery.

Reducing the risk

• Protect your eyes from the sun with UV-filter glasses
• Do not smoke
• Keep conditions such as diabetes under control
• See an ophthalmologist every year, especially after 60

When to see an ophthalmologist

• Worsening vision that makes everyday activities difficult
• Strong glare, especially when driving at night
• Persistent double vision in one eye
• Colours that look faded