OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITY

QUEZON CITY CAMPUS

Members:
Adora, Christine Emmanuelle P.
Larracas, Sebastian Guille T.
Ong, Lady Fiona B.
Padullano, Francine Nicole L.
Palomares, Ma. Theresa M.

CATARACT
Introduction
Cataract is one of the most common eye conditions affecting older adults. It
is a progressive change in the lens of the eye that leads to cloudiness and gradual
vision loss. The lens, which is normally clear, allows light to pass through to the
retina so that images appear sharp and focused. When a cataract develops, the lens
becomes opaque due to the clumping of proteins, causing vision to become blurry
or hazy.
In geriatric patients, cataract is often associated with the natural aging
process. However, other contributing factors may include long-term exposure to
sunlight, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and the use of certain medications such as
corticosteroids. Because vision is essential for maintaining safety, independence,
and quality of life, a cataract can greatly affect an elderly person’s ability to perform
daily activities. Early assessment, proper management, and patient education are
important to prevent complications and to promote healthy aging among the elderly
population.
Definition
A cataract is defined as the clouding or opacity of the eye’s crystalline lens
that results in blurred or decreased vision. According to the World Health
Organization, cataract remains the leading cause of reversible blindness worldwide,
especially among the elderly. It may affect one or both eyes and usually develops
gradually. Cataracts are classified based on their location in the lens, such as
nuclear, cortical, or posterior subcapsular cataract.
Causes
1. Age-related changes (Senile cataract)
As people get older, the lens of the eye naturally undergoes wear and
tear. The proteins in the lens start to break down and clump together, causing
cloudiness. This is the most common type of cataract.
2. Congenital cataract
Some babies are born with cataracts due to genetic factors or
infections during pregnancy such as rubella or cytomegalovirus. In these
cases, the lens doesn’t develop properly inside the womb.
3. Traumatic cataract
A strong blow, puncture, or injury to the eye can damage the lens.
Trauma can directly disturb the lens fibers or cause inflammation that
eventually leads to clouding.
4. Secondary cataract (due to diseases or medications)
Long-term illnesses like diabetes mellitus can cause sugar to build up
in the lens, attracting water and making it swell and opaque. Long-term use
of corticosteroids or exposure to radiation therapy can also trigger cataract
formation.
5. Radiation-induced cataract
Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or ionizing radiation
(like X-rays) can damage the lens cells, speeding up protein oxidation and
clouding.
6. Metabolic or nutritional causes
People with nutrient deficiencies, especially in vitamins C and E or
carotenoids, are more prone to cataracts. These nutrients act as antioxidants
that help protect the lens from damage caused by free radicals.
Risk Factors
1. Advancing age – The most common risk factor; natural aging weakens lens
proteins.
2. Family history or genetics – Having relatives with cataracts increases risk.
3. Diabetes mellitus – High blood sugar damages lens fibers and changes fluid
balance in the eye.
4. Prolonged use of corticosteroids – Commonly used for asthma or arthritis
but can cause lens clouding with long-term use.
5. Excessive UV exposure – Frequent sunlight exposure without eye
protection leads to oxidative stress in the lens.
6. Cigarette smoking – Smoking introduces toxins that promote free radical
damage to eye tissues.
7. Alcohol consumption – Heavy alcohol intake reduces antioxidant levels and
contributes to oxidative damage.
8. Eye trauma or inflammation – Direct injury or chronic eye inflammation
increases cataract formation.
9. Poor nutrition – Low intake of antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E) reduces lens
protection.
[Link] exposure – Occupational or therapeutic radiation can trigger lens
opacity.
[Link] (slightly higher in women) – Possibly due to hormonal factors and
longer life expectancy.
Signs and Symptoms
 Blurred vision
 Glare
 Halos around objects
 Double vision
 Lack of color contrast or faded colors
 Poor night vision
Diagnosis
 Vision test
 Eye structure exam
 Retinal exam
 Fluid pressure test
Medical Management
1. Drug Therapy
a. Topical corticosteroids – to reduce inflammation.
b. Mydriatic and cycloplegic agents – example is atropine, to dilate the
pupil and relieve discomfort.
c. Antibiotic eye drops – to prevent or treat infection.
2. Surgical Management
a. Phacoemulsification – removal of lens by ultrasonic vibration.
b. Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) – removal of lens while
keeping capsule intact.
c. Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation – replacement of the opaque lens
with an artificial one.
3. Postoperative Care
a. Use an eye shield to protect the eye.
b. Avoid straining, bending, or heavy lifting.
c. Maintain hygiene and proper medication use to prevent infection.
Nursing Management
1. Assessment
a. Assess visual acuity and level of independence in daily activities.
b. Observe for pain, redness, swelling, or discharge.
2. Preoperative Nursing Care
a. Explain the procedure and postoperative precautions.
b. Administer prescribed eye drops (mydriatics, antibiotics).
c. Ensure informed consent is obtained.
3. Postoperative Nursing Care
a. Monitor for pain, redness, or vision changes.
b. Administer eye medications as ordered.
c. Encourage rest and use of an eye shield or glasses
4. Health Teaching
a. Avoid rubbing or touching the eye.
b. Do not bend, cough, or strain.
c. Report sudden vision loss, pain, or discharge immediately.
d. Attend follow-up appointments regularly.