Cataracts are an opacity of the lens, the natural transparent lens of the eye that helps focus vision. As we age, the proteins in the lens can begin to clump together, causing it to become cloudy and opaque. This can lead to blurry, distorted vision or colors appearing less vivid.

Symptomatology:

  • Blurred or Cloudy Vision: The most common symptom is blurred vision, as if looking through dirty or foggy glass.
  • Difficulty Seeing at Night: Cataracts can make it challenging to see in low-light conditions, such as driving at night or reading in a dark environment.
  • Sensitivity to Light: The eyes may be more sensitive to light, especially sunlight, causing discomfort or glare.
  • Double Vision: In some cases, cataracts can cause double vision in one or both eyes.
  • Changes in Color Perception: Cataracts can make colors appear less vivid or dull.


Types of Cataracts:

  • Senile Cataract: The most common type of cataract, associated with aging. More frequent after the age of 55 to 60.
  • Congenital Cataract: Present from birth or developed during childhood.
  • Secondary Cataract: Caused by other eye conditions, such as glaucoma or diabetes.
  • Traumatic Cataract: Caused by a blow or injury to the eye.

Treatment:

The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery. In cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL is a transparent and permanent lens implanted inside the eye. This intraocular lens can come in different geometries: monofocal, trifocal, or EDOF technology.

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve vision. Most people experience a notable improvement in their vision after the surgery.