FAQs Cataract
What can be done to prevent cataract?
It is not yet clear, why the eye's lens changes as we age and develops
into a cataract. Research is on for the preventive measures. There is no
drug or drops as yet that has been proven to be of value in preventing
cataract. Recent studies show that exposure to UV rays (Ultra violet
rays) may be a factor in development of cataract. It is now recommended
to wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat to lessen the eyes' exposure
to UV rays from the sun.
Other studies suggest people with diabetes are at risk for developing a
cataract, as are users of steroids, diuretics, and major tranquilizers.
Can cataract occur at earlier age or in
childhood also?
Yes. Sometimes the child may be born with cataract or may develop
cataract in early childhood. The management of these cataracts is
different from that in adult patients. Cataract may also occur at an
earlier age because of trauma, inflammation of eye, use of medicines
like steroids, general medical conditions like diabetes, radiation etc.
Can the cataract be treated by laser
surgery?
Despite some public misconception, laser is not an option for removing
cataracts at this time. Even the experimental devices are quite
different from what one might imagine for use in a laser cataract
surgery. In these devices a laser is used to break up the nucleus of the
cataract into pieces small enough that they can be aspirated from the
eye, in the same manner that sound waves are used in
phacoemulsification. Thus, an
incision still needs to be made, and the lens material removed from the
eye. A very small incision will always be needed to physically remove
the cataractous lens material.
The YAG laser may be used following cataract surgery. The posterior
capsule of the lens, which supports the lens implant, sometimes turns
cloudy (aftercataract) several months or years after the original
cataract operation. If this blurs your vision, a clear opening can be
made painlessly in the center of the membrane with a laser. This indeed
is a procedure in which the patient sits in the chair and the laser,
without making any incision quickly clears the vision.
Will I get good vision after surgery?
Your sight will usually improve within a few days, although complete
healing may take 2-3 months. This is the time when a checkup for any
possible change in glasses is advised.
