By Olivia Lawrence
What are cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside your eye. and are very common as you get older. Cataracts normally develop very slowly and can appear in both eyes, but may not necessarily develop at the same time.
What are some causes of cataracts?
Age is the biggest risk factor for cataracts and the older you get the higher the risk. As our lens naturally ages, tissues in the lens break down and bind together, preventing light from passing directly through.
Smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, genetics, eye injuries, taking steroids, excessive sun exposure, and health problems such as diabetes can also increase the risk of cataracts.
What are some preventative measures for cataracts?
Not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, ), wearing sunglasses and a hat to avoid prolonged exposure to sun can help your eyes and delay cataracts. A regular eye examination at least once every two years is beneficial for early detection and monitoring
What could be the symptoms of cataracts?
At first, symptoms may not show when cataracts are mild. However, when cataracts start to develop, changes can occur in your vision. Symptoms include your vision becoming cloudy and colours can look faded. Other symptoms may include poor vision at night and lamps or sunlight seems too bright or you see a halo around lights. You may also be that you find yourself changing your glasses prescription often.
It is important to talk to an optometrist if you experience any changes to your vision as these symptoms can also be signs of other eye problems.
What are some treatments for cataracts?
If the cataracts are in the early stages, a few adjustments may be able to help you manage them. This includes using brighter lights at home, and wearing anti-glare sunglasses. Updating your glasses or contacts prescription can help you see better if the cataracts are early on.
If your cataract is getting in the way of everyday life and activities, it can be removed by surgery. The surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one known as an intraocular lens. The surgery is very safe and effective, and for most people, the operation is performed as a day case procedure, under local anaesthetic.
Where can I get further support?
In addition to your appointments with the doctor, optometrist, and hospital eye clinics, we are here to help at Berkshire Vision. From assisting you with devices that can make your life with a visual impairment a bit easier, to getting engaged with local social groups and other activities, we are always happy to help.
To get in touch, ring us on 0118 987 2803 or email us on info@berkshirevision.org.uk
