Cataract 2023
KATARAKT
A cataract is an eye condition that causes blurred vision and reduced visual clarity. The lens is located behind the pupil and is responsible for focusing the light onto the retina. This allows us to see clearly. Cataracts usually develop slowly and gradually and are often linked to aging. They can be caused by an injury, medications, systemic conditions (such as Diabetes), prolonged sun exposure, or genetic factors. Cataracts can affect either one eye or both.
Different types of cataracts include:
– The most common cataracts are age-related. They usually develop slowly over time.
– Congenital cataracts are those that develop at birth or during childhood. – An eye injury can cause traumatic cataracts.
– Secondary cataracts can be caused by certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, medications (such as steroids), or toxic substances.
Symptoms of cataracts:
– Blurred vision
– Hazy sight
– Increased sensitivity of glare at night
– Yellowing or fading of colors
– Need for brighter lighting for reading
– Frequent changes to contact lens prescriptions or eyeglasses.
You can reduce your risk of developing cataracts by taking certain precautions. Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes against ultraviolet radiation is one way. Other ways include quitting smoking, managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, eating a diet high in antioxidants, and having regular eye exams.
A comprehensive eye exam by an eye care professional such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist can diagnose cataracts. It may include visual acuity testing, a dilated exam, or other specialized tests to assess the cataracts’ extent.
What are the Treatment options for cataracts?
Surgery is the primary method of treating cataracts, also known as cataract surgery or cataract extraction. The cloudy lens is removed during this procedure and replaced by an artificial intraocular (IOL). The surgery can be very successful and is usually safe. If the cataract does not affect vision significantly, a doctor may suggest monitoring the condition and managing any symptoms associated with it by changing eyeglass prescriptions or using other interventions.
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Ayurveda for cataract
Ayurveda stresses regular eye exercises to relieve stress and improve blood circulation. These exercises include rotating the eyes, focusing on nearby and distant objects, and palming.
Triphala: Triphala, is an herbal preparation made of three fruits, amla, bihitaki, and haritaki. Ayurveda uses it for its eye health and believes it has antioxidant properties. Triphala eye drops or eyewash may be prescribed to relieve eye irritation.
Netra Basti – Netra Basti, is an Ayurvedic treatment that uses a mixture of herbal oils to create a dough dam around the eye. The medicated oil, which is warm, is then poured into the dam for a specified time. Netra Basti purports to improve eye health and nourish the eyes, but it should only be done under the supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Ayurvedic lifestyle and diet: Ayurveda stresses the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet. Include foods high in antioxidants such as colourful fruit and vegetables and incorporate stress management techniques, like yoga and meditation, to maintain eye health.
Homeopathy for Cataract
Homoeopathy is based on “like cures alike,” meaning that substances that cause symptoms in healthy people can also promote healing in someone with similar symptoms. It is important to keep in mind that homeopathy cannot be used as a replacement for conventional medicine for treating cataracts.
Nutraceuticals for cataract
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may protect the lens from oxidative damage, which can lead to cataracts. Citrus fruits, strawberries kiwi bell peppers, and broccoli are all foods rich in vitamin C.
- Vitamin E: Like vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals. It can also reduce the oxidative damage of lenses. Nuts, seeds, spinach, and fortified grains are good sources of vitamin E
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin – These carotenoids can be found in high concentrations within the macula, and the retina of the eye. They are thought to protect against the development of cataracts. Leafy greens, broccoli, eggs, and peas are all rich in lutein or zeaxanthin.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Omega is impossible to prevent all cases of cataracts, but you can take steps to health. Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of cataracts, according to some studies. Omega-3 fatty acid sources include salmon, mackerel, and sardines as well as flaxseeds, walnuts, and flaxseed oil.
Chinese medicine for cataracts
- Acupuncture – It is a technique in which thin needles are inserted at specific points in the body. It is thought to stimulate energy flow and promote balance in the body. Acupuncture can be used to treat cataracts and improve eye health.
- Chinese herbal medicine uses a variety of herbs and formulas to treat imbalances within the body. To promote eye health, TCM uses herbs like chrysanthemum (Ju Hua) and goji (Gou Qi Zi). It’s best to speak with a TCM practitioner before trying herbal remedies. They can give you personalized advice based on your health and needs.
- TCM stresses the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet. Some recommendations include eating foods high in antioxidants such as dark greens, carrots, and berries, and practicing stress management techniques like qigong and tai-chi.
Home remedies for cataracts
- Healthy diet: Consume a diet that is balanced and rich in fruits, whole grains, and vegetables. Include foods high in antioxidants such as dark greens, berries, and citrus fruits. Antioxidants can protect your eyes from oxidative damage.
- UV protection: When exposed to sunlight, wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause cataracts.
- Smoking is linked to an increased cataract risk. Quit smoking to improve your eye health.
- Control chronic conditions. Chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood tension can lead to cataract development. You should follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan and recommendations.
- Regular eye exams: Make sure to schedule regular eye examinations with an ophthalmologist. They can monitor cataract progression and offer appropriate treatment options.
- Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing cataracts. Regular exercise and a well-balanced diet will help you maintain a healthy body weight.
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What causes cataracts?
There are many causes of cataracts, but aging is the most common. Other factors are genetics, prolonged sun exposure, certain medications (such as corticosteroids), medical problems (such as diabetes), eye injuries, and smoking.
How can I tell if I’ve got cataracts?
What are the common symptoms of cataracts? A. Common signs and symptoms include blurry vision or hazy eyesight, increased sensitivity towards glares, difficulty at night seeing, faded colors or yellowed shades, needing brighter lights for reading, or frequent changes to eyeglass prescriptions. It’s still important to consult an eye doctor for a correct diagnosis.
Can we prevent cataracts?
Although it is impossible to prevent all cases of cataracts, you can take steps to reduce the risk or delay their development. Wearing sunglasses to protect against UV radiation is one way. Others include quitting smoking, managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, eating a diet high in antioxidants, and having regular eye exams.
Is it safe to have cataract surgery?
Yes. Cataract surgery is safe. It is also one of the most common surgeries performed worldwide. It is a highly successful procedure that improves vision and quality of life.
How long is cataract surgery?
The average duration of cataract surgery ranges from 10 to twenty minutes. You may have to stay at the surgery center longer for pre-operative prep and post-operative monitoring.
Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?
This depends on several factors including the type of intraocular lenses (IOLs) implanted, and your visual needs. After surgery, many people have improved vision and only need glasses to do certain things like reading or driving in the dark. Your surgeon will be able to provide you with specific advice based on your situation.
When can I resume my normal activities following cataract surgery?
Recovery time can vary. However, most people can return to their regular routines within a couple of days to a full week. It’s important to follow the instructions of your surgeon regarding post-operative care. This includes any restrictions or cautions.
Do cataracts return after surgery?
After cataracts have been removed surgically, they do not come back. Some people, however, may experience clouding in the posterior capsule. This is a remnant of the lens capsule after cataract surgery. This condition is known as secondary cataracts or posterior capsule opacification. It can be treated easily with a laser procedure called YAG capsulotomy.