Cataract is the opacity or clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. When this happens, the passage of light is reduced or blocked and the lens is unable to focus. Cataracts do not cause pain or discomfort. The condition is usually seen in the elderly where there is inevitable hardening of the lens with age. Diabetics often develop cataract about 10 years earlier than others. Cataracts can be present at birth or develop in young people.
SYMPTOMS
Blurred vision.
Shortsightedness.
A change in the perception of colours.
Diminishing vision leading to the loss of vision.
COMPLICATIONS
Fully developed cataracts at birth may prevent the normal development of visual ability unless they are treated within a few months.
COMMON CAUSES
Aging.
Diabetes.
Eye disease.
Injury to the lens of the eye.
Congenital cataracts.
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet light.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
See your doctor or pharmacist if you have any of the symptoms.
WHAT YOUR DOCTOR /PHARMACIST CAN DO FOR YOU
Initially, the shortsightedness can be helped by glasses.
Eventually, with further hardening of the lens, the opaque lens has to be surgically removed.
PREVENTION TIPS
Keep your blood sugar at normal levels if you are diabetic.
Take foods that protect against degenerative disorders of the eye and antioxidants like : vitamin C, zinc and selenium, and herbs like bilberry and ginkgo biloba which are rich in bioflavonoids.
Have your eyes checked every 12 months by an eye specialist.