| Introduction
The term cataract refers to the clouding of the normally transparent crystalline lens
of the eye. This lens is located behind the pupil and focuses light onto the retina in the
back of the eye so that we can see clearly.
The word cataract comes from the Greek word for waterfall. It was thought that a cataract
was formed by opaque material flowing, like a waterfall, into the eye. Cataracts are
actually formed as a result of aging, injury, ultraviolet light, drugs, systemic and
ocular disease. People with cataracts and blurred vision often find that their everyday
activities like driving, reading, watching TV and even walking become increasingly
difficult. To improve their quality of life, cataract surgery can restore the ability to
perform these activities.
What Is a Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the normally transparent lens of the eye. As the lens becomes
increasingly opaque, light rays entering the eye are prevented from focusing on the
retina, the light sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. Symptoms include blurred
vision, sensitivity to light and glare, distortion, and dimming of colors and vision.
Types of Cataracts
There are mainly three types of cataract. A nuclear cataract occurs in the center
of the lens. This type is the most common form of cataract and is associated with the
natural aging process.
The cortical cataract begins with spoke-like formation extending from the outside
of the lens into the center. When the spokes reach the center, blurring and glare result
in loss of vision. Diabetics commonly develop this type of cataract.
A subcapsular cataract develops very slowly and starts at the back of the lens.
Symptoms may not appear until the opacity is well developed. Subcapsular cataracts are
often found in patients with diabetes, high myopia, retinitis pigmentosa, and people
taking steroids for extended periods.
How are Cataracts Diagnosed?
Your eye doctor will perform a thorough examination of your eyes. Glare testing and
contrast sensitivity tests are sometimes used. There is no single objective test to
determine a need for cataract surgery. The final decision for cataract surgery is made by
the patient and depends on how much the decreased vision from the cataract is bothersome.
How can a Cataract be Treated?
At first, a change in your eyeglass prescription may be all that is needed. This may
improve your vision temporarily. There are no medications or eye drops that will cause
cataracts to disappear. When you are unable to do the things you like doing, or you are
unable to pass your drivers license exam, cataract surgery should be considered. Cataracts
can only be removed with surgery.
How Successful is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery has an overall success rate of over 99 percent at Southeastern Eye
Center.
What about pre-existing conditions?
Even with successful cataract surgery your eye may not see as well as you would like.
Other problems like macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetes may limit vision after
surgery. Even with such problems cataract surgery may be beneficial. If your eyes are
healthy, the chances of restoring good vision following cataract surgery are excellent.
How is the surgery done?
After drops are used to numb the eye, a small, less than 3mm, incision is made. Special
microsurgical instruments are used to break up and suction the lens fragments from the eye
(phacoemulsification). The back portion of the lens capsule is left in place and polished
for clarity. A small foldable intraocular lens will be inserted through the wound and
unfolded in place of the natural lens. The incision is self-sealing so that no stitches
are needed.
Are there any restrictions after surgery?
After surgery you may return to your normal activities. You may bend, stoop over, go up
and down stairs, watch TV, read or work in the garden as usual. You may take showers and
shampoo your hair. However, the most important instruction to remember is DO NOT RUB YOUR
EYE for at least one week after surgery, and do not go swimming for two weeks after
surgery.
What about appointments after surgery?
You will be seen by one of our Doctors the day after surgery. An appointment will then be
made for you two weeks and then two months from your surgical date.
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