Cataracts can be surgically removed or dissolved with sound waves

What Causes Cataracts

Cataract is a disease caused by the deterioration of the eye lens, resulting in cloudiness of the lens that blocks light from entering the eye. People with cataracts see unclearly or experience blurred vision. If left untreated, it may progress to blindness.

Causes of Cataracts

The main cause of cataracts is aging, which leads to lens deterioration. This disease can occur in anyone and is commonly found in the elderly.

Risk Factors for Premature Cataracts

• Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light or working outdoors for many hours each day, such as farmers and drivers
• Eye diseases such as iritis or eye infections
• Underlying diseases such as diabetes
• Eye injuries or frequent trauma to the eyes
• Congenital abnormalities, such as newborns whose mothers had rubella during pregnancy
• Use of steroid medications

Symptoms of Cataracts

• Blurred vision, unclear sight, sometimes double vision or cloudy haze
• Seeing scattered light, especially when driving at night
• Frequently needing to change glasses due to worsening vision or still unclear vision with glasses
• In advanced cataracts, a white haze is often seen in the center of the pupil

Cataract Treatment

Cataracts cannot be treated with oral medication or eye drops. Treatment requires surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial lens. The popular surgical methods currently include:

• Phacoemulsification using high-frequency ultrasound waves
• Cataract surgery and artificial lens implantation using femtosecond laser

Eye Health Care to Delay Cataract Development

• Get enough rest
• Eat nutritious foods such as green leafy vegetables and fruits
• Wear sunglasses that filter ultraviolet light
• Avoid eye injuries; do not let the eyes be hit
• Have regular eye check-ups; people over 40 years old should have annual eye exams