A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens, which is behind the iris and the pupil. Cataracts affect vision of more than half of the old over 80. A cataract may happen to either or both eyes. But it is not contagious. Three types of cataracts are commonly recognized: subcapsular cataract, nuclear cataract and corticl cataract.
There are many clear symptoms of a cataract, such as cloudy and blurry vision, fading colors, poor night vision, glare and double vision or multiple images in one eye. Patients show these symptoms more or less according to the size of the cataracts.
The lens is a part of the eye that is responsible for focusing light onto the retina and adjusting focus. Nerve signals are formed once light reaches the retina and then sent to the brain. As people age, some of the proteins clump together and cloud a part of the lens, then a cataract is formed. Over the time, cataracts may grow larger and cover more of the lens, making the vision worse. So cataracts are always related to aging. But according to many studies, ultraviolet light and cosmic radiation are associated with cataract development. People with diabetes are more probably to suffer from cataracts. Bad habits such as cigarette smoking and heavy alcohol consumption may also cause a cataract.
How to treat cataracts? At the early stage of a cataract, glasses, strong bifocals and magnifier may be enough. But when the cataract has progressed enough that seriously impairs the vision, Cataract surgery is needed. Cataract surgery is simple and safe and will effectively restore your good vision.