A cataract is when the eye’s lens becomes clouded, causing the light passing through the eye to become scattered and unfocused. The natural eye lens is made up of water and protein, so as the eye ages, some proteins can become discolored resulting in the blurring of vision.
AGE
Cataracts develop as age advances. Cataracts typically begin forming around age 55, but can be seen in patients at earlier ages depending on physical health and predisposed risk factors.
Diabetes
Patients who have diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cataracts at an earlier age.
Excessive Exposure to Sunlight
Ultraviolet rays from direct sunlight can lead to the early development of cataracts. Sunglasses are an effective form of protection against direct sunlight.
Smoking/Drinking Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol drinking are a predisposing factor for early cataract development
Obesity
Obesity is a predisposing risk factor for diabetes and other systemic illnesses, which can in turn lead to early cataract development.
High Blood Pressure
Patients who have diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cataracts at an earlier age.
Excessive Exposure to Sunlight
Any form of direct blunt trauma can give rise to traumatic cataracts, even in young patients. Inflammatory eye diseases like uveitis can also add to the risk of cataracts.
Prolonged Use of Corticosteroid Medication
Any form of oral of topical steroid treatment for a long-term period of 6 months – 1 year can lead to cataracts.
Cataract Treatment in Pune
Cataract Treatment Methods
Treatment of cataracts involves the removal of the natural lens and implantation of an intraocular lens in its place. Treatment methods include:
Phacoemulsification
internal lens is emulsified with an ultrasonic device and removed from the eye.
Laser Cataract Surgery
affected lens is broken up and extracted using the CATALYS® precision laser, and replaced with an intraocular lens.
Phacoemulsification Benefits
Laser Cataract Surgery Benefits
Types of Intraocular Lenses:
Monofocal IOL : Restores vision for one area of focus – distance vision
Toric IOL : premium IOL that correct astigmatism as well as nearsightedness or farsightedness. Symfony toric IOL is the lens of choice.
Multifocal IOL : provide high quality vision at multiple distances i.e the multifocal lens of choice is symfony IOL which uses two advanced technologies that work together to: