CATARACTS
Cloudy Vision - treatable
Definition
• a medical condition in which the lens
of the eye becomes progressively
opaque, resulting in blurred vision.
• a lens opacity or cloudiness.
• can develop in one or both eyes and
any age.
• most common in people aged 40
above
Categories
Types of cataracts are categorized by what kind of change is
happening to the lens (color, structure, etc.) and where in the
lens they are located. Cataracts can develop at the back
(posterior) of the lens, the center (nucleus) of the lens or
around its periphery.
Types by location
• Nuclear
• Posterior Subcapsular
• Cortical
Common Types
• Age-related cataracts: These cataracts cause clouding and
blurry vision, and they’re common in people 75 and older.
• Traumatic cataracts: A serious injury can damage your lens,
and a cataract could form as your eye heals.
• Radiation cataracts: Therapy involving ultraviolet (UV)
rays, along with too much sun exposure, can cause cataract
formation.
Common Types
• Pediatric cataracts: Congenital defects can cause cataracts in
newborns. Sometimes, these vision problems appear later.
• Secondary cataracts: Some people develop scar tissue after
cataract surgery. Cells can clump together, forming a
secondary cataract, or a return of cataract symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
Ageing (most common)
Cigarette smoking
Long-term use of corticosteroids,
at high dose
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet
sunlight
Diabetes
Obesity
Eye injuries/Trauma
Signs and Symptoms
Sample Visions
Clinical Management
MEDICAL MANAGEMENT
• No nonsurgical treatment (medications, eyedrops,
eyeglasses) cures cataracts or prevent age-related cataracts.
• Studies have found no benefit from antioxidant
supplements, vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium.
Clinical Management
• Glasses or contact, bifocal, or magnifying lenses may
improve vision.
• Mydriatics can be used short term, but glare is increased.
Bifocal glasses
Glasses and contact lenses
Mydriatics/ Eye Drops
Clinical Management
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
• In general, if reduced vision from cataract does not interfere
with normal activities, surgery may not be needed.
• In deciding when cataract surgery is to be performed, the
patient’s functional and visual status should be a primary
consideration.
Clinical Management
• Surgical options include
phacoemulsification (breaks up the
cataract in order for it to be
suctioned out and removed using phacoemulsification
laser)
• lens replacement (aphakic intraocular lens implants
eyeglasses, contact lenses, and
intraocular lens implants).
Clinical Management
• Cataracts are removed under local
anesthesia on an outpatient basis.
When both eyes have cataracts, one
eye is treated first, with at least several
weeks, preferably months, separating
the two procedures.
Caregiver Management
• If caregiving is provided in the patient’s home, structure the
environment with conducive lighting and reduce fall
hazards.
• Suggest magnifying glasses and large-print books. Explain
that sunglasses and soft lighting can reduce glare.
• Assist the patient with the actions of daily living as needed
to remedy any self-care deficit (limitations).
Caregiver Management
• Encourage the patient to verbalize or keep a log on his or
her fears and anxiety about visual loss or impending surgery.
• Help plan events to solve the problems with social isolation.
Conclusion
Cataracts are a common vision problem that can be
successfully treated with surgery. By protecting your eyes from
UV rays, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular eye exams,
you can reduce your risk of developing cataracts.
