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Understanding cataracts: causes and symptoms

Imagine looking through a frosted window, where once-clear views are now blurred and muted. That’s how you might see life if you have cataracts, a common condition affecting nearly 1 in 3 Australians over 55. 

At OKKO Eye Specialist Centre, we believe understanding cataracts is the first step toward managing their impact and helping you see more clearly again.

What are cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens of your eye becomes cloudy. The lens sits behind the iris (the coloured part of your eye) and helps focus light onto your retina, allowing you to see clearly. When the lens becomes cloudy, your vision can appear foggy or dim, similar to looking through a smudged camera lens.

Cataracts develop gradually. In their early stages, you might not notice any changes to your vision. Over time, however, they can interfere with daily activities like reading, driving or recognising faces.

What causes cataracts?

The risk of a cataract increases significantly as you get older – 70% of Australians  over the age of 80 have cataracts.

Ageing isn’t the only cause, though. Cataracts can also develop due to:

  • UV exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight without adequate eye protection can increase your risk.
  • Underlying medical conditions: Diabetes is a significant risk factor.
  • Certain medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids, for example, has been linked to cataract development.
  • Smoking and alcohol use: These lifestyle factors can contribute to oxidative stress, increasing the likelihood of cataracts.
  • Eye injury or surgery: Previous trauma or surgery can sometimes lead to cataract formation.
  • Congenital cataracts: In some cases, cataracts are present at birth due to genetic factors or maternal infections during pregnancy.

Symptoms and impacts

In its early stages, a cataract might feel like a subtle inconvenience. Over time, however, it can significantly impact your life, making even routine tasks challenging. 

Common symptoms include:

  • Blurry or cloudy vision: You might feel like you’re constantly looking through a foggy window.
  • Increased glare sensitivity: Bright lights, particularly at night, can cause discomfort or halos around light sources.
  • Diminished colour perception: Colours may appear faded or yellowed.
  • Double vision in one eye: This symptom can occur as the lens distorts light entering the eye.
  • Frequent prescription changes: You might find your glasses or contact lenses becoming ineffective more quickly than usual.

These symptoms don’t just affect your ability to see clearly; they can also take a toll on your quality of life. Tasks like driving at night or reading small print can become difficult and you may find yourself withdrawing from social or professional activities due to the frustration of poor vision.

Treatment options

Surgery is the only way to remove cataracts. About 250,000 cataract surgeries are performed in Australia each year. 

Here’s what the process typically involves:

  1. Pre-surgical assessment: Your ophthalmologist will thoroughly examine your eyes to determine the severity of the cataract and discuss your options.
  2. Surgery: Cataract surgery involves replacing the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure is usually quick (under 30 minutes) and performed under twilight anaesthesia.
  3. Post-surgical care: Recovery is typically smooth, with most patients noticing improved vision within days.

Learn more about types of cataract surgery.

For individuals in the early stages of cataract development, non-surgical measures, such as stronger prescription lenses  may help manage symptoms temporarily but there is no direct treatment other than surgery. 

A new chapter of clarity

Cataracts are a common part of ageing but they don’t have to define your vision – or your life. Though you may feel understandably nervous about the thought of eye surgery, it can be a worthwhile step to help restore your sight and your quality of life.  

If you’ve noticed any changes in your vision or suspect you might have cataracts, please come to see us. At OKKO Eye Specialist Centre, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. 

Please book a consultation today.

 

Disclaimer

All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. OKKO Eye Specialist Centre can consult with you regarding your individual health needs. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.

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