All about Cataract
Cataract is a very common eye condition which causes the lens inside your eye to become cloudy over time. Cataracts usually begin in later life and you may notice your vision becoming gradually more misty as they develop.
What causes cataract?
Most cataracts are simply an age-related change that may of us will experience eventually. However, other factors which predispose you to develop cataracts include smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, poor diet, over-exposure to sunlight, use of corticosteroids, a previous eye injury or surgery, diabetes and uveitis.
How is cataract treated?
The good news is that cataract surgery is now a routine procedure with a very low risk of complications. Modern cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear plastic implant lens. The surgery is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, so you can return home the same day.
What happens after my cataracts have been removed?
Most people can return to their normal activities within a couple of weeks. If you wore glasses before the operation you may find your spectacle prescription needs updating, but it is best to wait for a few weeks to let your eyes settle down before seeing your optometrist.