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What are cataracts? Types, Causes, and symptoms

The most common eye disease that is found in people over the age of 40 is the cataract. Underling the medical definition, cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. It is the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 40.

 

The best eye specialist in Gurgaon considers it the principal cause of blindness in the world. We will try to dig the causes, symptoms, and types of cataracts to prevent ourselves and our loved ones because we all know prevention is always better than cure.

 

Types:-

 

The best cataract specialists in Gurgaon highlight the three most common types of cataracts that become the cause of vision loss in people. These are listed and explained below:-

 

1. Subcapsular cataract:

 

It occurs at the back of the lens. People with diabetes are always at high risk of developing this type of cataract. Apart from that, people who take high doses of steroid medications also have a greater risk of developing a subcapsular cataract.

 

2. Nuclear cataract:

 

It forms deep in the central zone or nucleus of the lens and thus is called nuclear cataract. This type of cataract is usually associated with aging and mainly affects people above the age of 40.

 

3. Cortical cataract:

 

It is characterized by white, wedge-like opacities that start in the periphery of the lens and work their way to the center in a spoke-like fashion. This type of cataract occurs in the lens cortex, which is the part of the lens that surrounds the central nucleus.

 

Causes:-

 

According to the best retina specialists in Gurgaon, the lens inside the eye that is mostly made of water and protein eye works much like a camera lens, focusing light onto the retina for clear vision. It also adjusts the eye’s focus, letting us see things clearly both up close and far away. The protein is arranged in a precise way that keeps the lens clear and lets light pass through it. But as we age, some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens. This is a cataract, and over time, it may grow larger and cloud more of the lens, making it harder to see. Some of the causes or risk factors for this condition are given below:

 

  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Obesity
  • Ultraviolet radiation
  • High myopia
  • Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
  • Previous eye surgery
  • Statin medicines used to reduce cholesterol
  • Previous eye injury or inflammation
  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • Significant alcohol consumption
  • Family history
  • Smoking

Symptoms:-

 

To avoid the vision loss due to cataract it is better to know the early symptoms so that necessary treatment is given before it becomes too late to mend. According to the best cataract surgeons in Gurgaon, the main symptom of cataracts is hazy or blurred vision. Initially, cataracts have little effect on your vision but it increases with age and time. You may notice that your vision is blurred a little, like looking through a cloudy piece of glass or viewing an impressionist painting.

 

A cataract may make light from the sun or lamps seem too bright or glaring for your eyes. You will also find that colors may not appear as bright as they once did. Also, when you drive at night, the oncoming headlights will cause more glare than before for your eyes. The type of cataract you have will affect exactly which symptoms you experience and how soon they will occur. When a nuclear cataract first develops, it can bring about a temporary improvement in your near vision, called second sight. Unfortunately, the improved vision is short-lived and will disappear as the cataract worsens. On the other hand, a subcapsular cataract may not produce any symptoms until it is well-developed.

 

If you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, visit an eye specialist immediately to stop things from getting worse. If you are looking for the best eye hospital in Gurgaon for the best cataract treatment, visit Viaan Eye and Retina centre. To book an appointment call 099580651651

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