What is a Cataract?

Inside the human eye there is a Lens that helps us focus on things at different distances.   This lens is normally transparent, however it may become partially or fully opacified (clouded) for many reasons, such as injuries, metabolic problems, or long-term use of certain medications. Aging, however, is the most common cause of this clouding of the lens.  Anything that restricts the passage of light through this lens is called a cataract and this can vary from a general hazing of the lens (ie. an age-related cataract) to a localized "spot" of opacification (ie. a dot cataract). Please note that a cataract is not a "growth" of tissue across your cornea or pupil.

 How does this Blur vision?

If you look through a dirty windshield in your car, or look through a frosted window, you have more difficulty seeing. In a similar way, cataracts haze your vision.  Interestingly, some forms of cataracts have worse effects on your vision than others.  Also, you may find that your eyesight tends to fluctuate more, due to the presence of cataract.

 When do you need to have a Cataract removed?

There is no simple answer to this, however the most important consideration is the effect it has on your day to day activities.  If the reduction in your vision interferes in your normal lifestyle, then it is time to see a cataract surgeon.  This obviously can vary greatly with individuals. For instance, an accountant may require very sharp vision due to occupational needs, whereas a retiree may live quite adequately with the same level of vision. How is a Cataract removed? Cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed these days.  It is almost always done on an outpatient basis, and usually with local anesthesia only.  In simple terms,  a small incision is made near the edge of the cornea, and the "hazy" lens is removed.  A new plastic lens, called an implant is inserted in place of the old lens.  This allows the eye to have relatively normal vision after the healing process is complete.Are there any Complications? As with any surgery, there can be complications, however these are minimal due to the advanced techniques used.  The healing process normally takes two to six months.  Naturally, you are sightly more at risk for problems such as infections or inflammations during this time, however your surgeon will prescribe the appropriate medications to minimize these risks.  A very small number of patients have complications such that their final vision is no better, or perhaps worse than before, however the vast majority of those undergoing cataract surgery have no problems, and enjoy greatly improved vision afterwards.Is there anything else that can be done? There is some medical evidence that some forms of cataract formation can at least be slowed down by taking certain vitamins.  Of course, you should make every attempt to have a well balanced diet, according to the Canada Food Guide.  This should ensure an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals. The items which are often suggested as necessary to slow down aging changes, such as cataract formation, are as follows:

Please note: this list is not exhaustive, nor do we specifically recommend any particular food or vitamin product.  Excess intake of some vitamins or minerals can be dangerous.  Again, try to maintain a balanced diet, and include some of the above items.  You may wish to consult a nutritionist or your physician if unsure about making any dietary changes.What do we do next? If you have decided that you wish to see a cataract surgeon, we can arrange this in most larger local centers.   Some surgeons have a shorter waiting time for surgery than others.If you have decided to wait for now, stay in regular follow- up with our office and we can monitor any changes in cataract progression.What changes can occur as the cataract develops? It is a common finding with many patients who are developing cataracts to see a "shift" in their refractive error.  This is usually in the myopic (nearsighted, or LESS farsighted) direction. It is unpredictable in the amount of change, and the time it takes for the change to occur.  Unfortunately, the changes generally continue in a progressive manner, and it is not unusual for frequent lens changes to be needed.  Patient’s also may experience variable or fluctuating vision as cataracts develop.  Vision may be clear at some times but blurred at other times.When your vision becomes unacceptable to YOU, despite the best correction that we can provide, it is time to start thinking seriously about a referral to a cataract surgeon.   For more information on cataracts follow this link CataractsFor the latest developments in the area of cataracts follow Cataract News

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