Hazy with a chance of Cataract?
Cataract (白内障, Báinèizhàng), often misunderstood and shrouded in misconceptions, deserve a closer look. Let's unravel the truths behind these common myths to better understand this prevalent eye condition!
Myth #1: “Cataract only affects the elderly.”
Reality: The journey of cataract often begins around the age of 40, where protein in the lens start to break down and form an opacity, clouding vision over time as it accumulates. Contrary to the misconception that cataract only emerges with age, congenital cataract manifests from birth. Congenital cataract can be hereditary, or caused by birth trauma, maternal infection etc.. Three in 10,000 births bear witness to this unique facet of cataracts, challenging the notion that age is the sole determinant.
Myth #2: “Cataract is preventable.”
Reality: Cataract is a natural part of the ageing process. Living a healthy lifestyle by refraining from smoking, wearing sunglasses/visors when outdoors or driving for UV protection, and maintaining a balanced diet can reduce the rate of progression. However, complete prevention is not guaranteed. Regular check-ups, on the other hand, can aid in early detection and timely management.
Myth #3: “Cataract can grow back after surgery.”
Reality: Once the cloudy lens is removed and an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is fitted in its place, the cataract does not grow back. However, it is possible to experience other eye conditions. Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) can occur, where the thin membrane holding the IOL in place becomes cloudy, resulting in blurry vision and glare around lights, symptoms similar to that of cataract. Treatment is fast and the chance of the issue returning after the procedure is low.
Now that the myths have been debunked, let’s delve into the common symptoms caused by cataract for you and your family to look out for!
Clouded/blurred vision – Progressive blurring of vision is a distinctive sign of cataract. If your vision is starting to feel like you’re looking through a hazy lens or objects are starting to lack sharpness, it’s a crucial observation that should not be overlooked.
Increased sensitivity to light and glare – Cataract can make lights uncomfortably bright. If you find yourself squinting in well-lit environments, it could be a symptom worth noting.
Frequent changes in glasses/contact lens prescription – If you find yourself constantly needing to update your glasses prescription, but there seems to be no apparent improvement in your vision? Cataract might be a contributing factor.
Difficulty seeing at night – if you notice an increased struggle to see clearly in low-light conditions or while driving at night, it’s a red flag for potential cataract.
Fading/yellowing of colours – If you observe colours start to appear dull/yellowed, it might indicate the presence of cataract.
Understanding the symptoms of cataract and taking proactive measures to seek professional eye care are essential steps in preserving optimal vision. While these symptoms may not definitively confirm the presence of the eye condition, staying vigilant for these indicators marks the initial stride in early identification and appropriate treatment. If you feel that you or a family member is experiencing symptoms akin to those described, it is highly recommended to consult with an appropriate eye care professional immediately for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.
