What are the common symptoms of vision loss. How can age-related macular degeneration affect your eyesight. What treatment options are available for cataracts. How does diabetic retinopathy impact vision over time. What are the effects of glaucoma on eyesight. Which lifestyle changes can help prevent vision loss. When should you see an eye doctor about vision changes.

Recognizing the Early Signs of Vision Loss

Vision loss can manifest in various ways, ranging from partial to complete loss of sight. Identifying the early signs is crucial for timely intervention and treatment. Some common symptoms include:

• Blurred or hazy vision
• Appearance of spots or wavy lines in central vision
• Diminished peripheral vision
• Difficulty seeing in low light conditions
• Reduced color perception

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 12 million Americans over 40 experience vision impairment, with 1 million facing blindness. Understanding these symptoms can help individuals seek appropriate medical attention before their condition worsens.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Leading Cause of Vision Loss in Older Adults

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a significant contributor to vision loss among the elderly. This condition affects the macula, a part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. As AMD progresses, it can lead to:

• Difficulty recognizing faces
• Challenges with reading and driving
• Impaired ability to perform close-up tasks

While AMD doesn’t cause complete blindness, it can severely impact one’s quality of life. Early detection and management are crucial in slowing its progression.

Treatment Options for AMD

Treatment for AMD varies depending on its stage and type:

• Early-stage AMD: Currently, no specific treatment is available
• Intermediate AMD: Dietary supplements may be recommended to prevent progression
• Wet AMD: Anti-VEGF drugs and photodynamic therapy can be effective

Cataracts: Clouding the Lens of Vision

Cataracts are a common age-related condition characterized by clouding of the eye’s lens. This clouding develops gradually as proteins in the lens break down and clump together. Symptoms of cataracts include:

• Increasingly blurry vision
• Hazy eyesight
• Diminished color perception

Cataracts are a major cause of blindness worldwide, but they are treatable with proper medical intervention.

Managing and Treating Cataracts

In the early stages of cataracts, several strategies can help manage symptoms:

• Using brighter lighting at home and work
• Wearing anti-glare sunglasses
• Utilizing magnifying lenses for reading
• Updating eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions

When cataracts significantly interfere with daily activities, surgical removal may be recommended as a definitive treatment.

Diabetic Retinopathy: A Complication of Diabetes Affecting Vision

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. It is the leading cause of blindness among adults in the United States. DR can progress through various stages:

• Early stage: Often asymptomatic
• Intermediate stage: Difficulty reading or seeing distant objects
• Advanced stage: Presence of floating spots or streaks in vision

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing vision loss from DR. Unfortunately, about 50% of DR cases are diagnosed too late for effective treatment.

Treatment Approaches for Diabetic Retinopathy

While treatment cannot reverse existing damage, it can prevent further vision loss. Options include:

• Anti-VEGF injections to slow or reverse DR progression
• Laser treatment to reduce swelling and improve blood flow in the retina

Glaucoma: Silent Thief of Sight

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. It often progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, earning it the moniker “silent thief of sight.” As glaucoma advances, it typically affects peripheral vision first before progressing to central vision.

While there is no cure for glaucoma, early treatment can halt optic nerve damage and preserve vision. Without intervention, glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness.

Preventing Vision Loss: Lifestyle Changes and Regular Check-ups

Maintaining good eye health is crucial for preventing vision loss. Here are some tips to keep your eyes healthy:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E
• Wear protective eyewear when engaging in high-risk activities
• Quit smoking or avoid secondhand smoke
• Control chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
• Limit screen time and practice the 20-20-20 rule
• Get regular eye exams, especially if you’re over 40 or have a family history of eye diseases

These lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing eye conditions that lead to vision loss.

When to Seek Professional Help for Vision Changes

Knowing when to consult an eye care professional is crucial for maintaining good vision health. Consider seeking medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden changes in vision quality
• Persistent eye pain or discomfort
• Frequent headaches associated with visual tasks
• Difficulty adjusting to changes in light levels
• Consistent problems with near or far vision

Early intervention can often prevent minor issues from developing into more serious conditions that threaten your eyesight.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting vision problems before they become severe. The frequency of these exams depends on various factors, including age, overall health, and family history. Generally, adults should have a comprehensive eye exam:

• Every 2-4 years for those aged 40-54
• Every 1-3 years for those aged 55-64
• Every 1-2 years for those 65 and older

People with existing eye conditions or risk factors may need more frequent check-ups.

Innovative Treatments and Future Prospects in Vision Care

The field of ophthalmology is constantly evolving, with new treatments and technologies emerging to combat vision loss. Some promising developments include:

• Gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases
• Stem cell treatments for macular degeneration
• Artificial intelligence in diagnosing eye conditions
• Advanced intraocular lenses for cataract surgery
• Neuroprotective therapies for glaucoma

These innovations offer hope for improved treatments and potentially even cures for various causes of vision loss in the future.

The Role of Technology in Vision Assistance

For those already experiencing vision loss, assistive technologies can greatly improve quality of life. Some examples include:

• Screen reading software for computer use
• Smartphone apps for navigation and object recognition
• Electronic magnifiers for reading
• Smart glasses with audio description capabilities

These technologies continue to advance, offering increasingly sophisticated solutions for individuals with visual impairments.

Understanding the Psychological Impact of Vision Loss

Vision loss can have profound psychological effects on individuals. Common emotional responses include:

• Depression and anxiety
• Loss of independence and self-esteem
• Social isolation
• Grief over the loss of visual experiences

Addressing these psychological aspects is crucial for comprehensive care. Support groups, counseling, and rehabilitation services can help individuals cope with the emotional challenges of vision loss.

Strategies for Adapting to Vision Loss

Adapting to vision loss involves developing new skills and strategies. Some helpful approaches include:

• Learning Braille or tactile sign language
• Utilizing audio books and descriptive video services
• Reorganizing living spaces for safety and accessibility
• Exploring occupational therapy for daily living skills

With proper support and resources, many individuals with vision loss can maintain independence and lead fulfilling lives.

The Global Perspective: Vision Loss as a Public Health Issue

Vision loss is not just an individual health concern but a significant public health issue worldwide. According to the World Health Organization:

• Approximately 2.2 billion people globally have a vision impairment
• At least 1 billion cases of vision impairment could have been prevented or are yet to be addressed
• The majority of people with vision impairment are over the age of 50

Addressing vision health on a global scale requires coordinated efforts in prevention, treatment, and accessibility of eye care services.

Initiatives for Global Eye Health

Various international initiatives aim to combat vision loss globally:

• VISION 2020: The Right to Sight
• WHO’s Universal Eye Health: A Global Action Plan 2014-2019
• The Lancet Global Health Commission on Global Eye Health

These programs focus on increasing awareness, improving access to eye care, and developing sustainable eye health systems worldwide.

Nutrition and Eye Health: Eating for Better Vision

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health and potentially preventing certain causes of vision loss. Key nutrients for eye health include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
• Lutein and zeaxanthin: Abundant in leafy greens and colorful fruits
• Vitamin C: Present in citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers
• Vitamin E: Found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils
• Zinc: Present in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds

Incorporating these nutrients into your diet can support overall eye health and potentially reduce the risk of age-related eye conditions.

Supplements for Eye Health

While a balanced diet is the best source of nutrients, some individuals may benefit from eye health supplements. The Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS and AREDS2) found that specific formulations of vitamins and minerals can slow the progression of AMD in certain individuals. However, it’s essential to consult with an eye care professional before starting any supplement regimen.

The Connection Between Systemic Health and Vision

Many systemic health conditions can impact eye health and vision. Some key connections include:

• Diabetes and diabetic retinopathy
• Hypertension and retinal vascular diseases
• Autoimmune disorders and uveitis
• Thyroid dysfunction and eye muscle problems

Managing these underlying health conditions is crucial for maintaining good eye health and preventing vision loss.

The Role of Regular Health Check-ups

Regular health check-ups can help detect and manage conditions that may affect eye health. These check-ups should include:

• Blood pressure monitoring
• Blood sugar level tests
• Cholesterol level checks
• Thyroid function tests when indicated

By addressing overall health, individuals can indirectly support their eye health and reduce the risk of vision-threatening complications.

Environmental Factors and Vision Health

Various environmental factors can impact eye health and potentially contribute to vision loss. Key considerations include:

• UV radiation exposure
• Blue light from digital devices
• Air pollution
• Occupational hazards

Understanding and mitigating these environmental risks can help protect vision in the long term.

Protecting Eyes from Environmental Hazards

To safeguard eyes from environmental threats, consider the following measures:

• Wear UV-blocking sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats outdoors
• Use blue light filters on digital devices
• Ensure proper ventilation in areas with high air pollution
• Use appropriate protective eyewear in hazardous work environments

These precautions can significantly reduce the risk of eye damage from environmental factors.

What are the symptoms of going blind?

The term “vision loss” can refer to either the complete or partial loss of vision. When a person begins to experience sight loss, they may experience a variety of symptoms, such as blurred vision, the presence of spots in their central vision, and the loss of peripheral vision.

Vision loss is a common occurrence. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 12 million people in the United States above 40 years of age have vision impairment. This includes 1 million people who have blindness.

In this article, we outline the symptoms of vision loss and discuss the potential causes of blindness. We also list possible treatments and tips for healthy eyes.

If a person is experiencing sight loss, they may develop a number of symptoms. These can include:

• blurred vision
• hazy vision and cloudiness
• wavy lines or spots in their central vision
• restricted peripheral vision
• poor vision at night or in the dark
• difficulty seeing colors

Below are some of the potential causes of vision loss.

Age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when aging causes damage to the macula. The macula is a part of the retina. It controls sharp, straight-ahead vision. When AMD causes damage to the macula, it can blur a person’s central vision.

AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults. It does not cause complete blindness, but losing the central vision can make it harder to:

• see faces
• read
• drive
• do close-up work, such as cooking or fixing things

Cataracts

A cataract is a cloudy area that appears in the lens of the eye. The lens is the clear part of the eye that helps focus light. Most cataracts develop due to natural changes in the eye as a person ages.

When a person is young, their lens is often clear. Then, as they age, proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump together. These clumps cause the lens in the eye to become cloudy, causing cataracts.

Cataracts can take time to develop, and a person may not notice they have a cataract at first. Over time, the cataract can worsen, making a person’s vision:

• blurry
• hazy
• less colorful

Cataracts are a major cause of blindness around the world.

Diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a potential complication of diabetes. DR occurs when diabetes causes damage to the blood vessels of the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. DR varies in severity depending on the number of blocked blood vessels, but it can lead to permanent vision loss.

According to the CDC, DR is the leading cause of blindness among adults in the U.S.

In the early stages of DR, a person may not experience any symptoms. Others may experience symptoms such as having trouble reading or seeing objects that are far away. These changes may come and go. In the later stages of DR, a person may see floating spots or streaks in their vision.

Early diagnosis and treatment of DR can help reduce the risk of vision loss. However, around 50% of people with DR receive a diagnosis that is too late for treatment to be effective.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the name for a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve. This is the nerve present at the back of the eye.

In its early stages, glaucoma may not cause a person to develop any symptoms. Over time they may start to slowly lose their vision. This often begins with peripheral vision.

Currently, there is no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment can help stop damage to the optic nerve and protect a person’s vision. Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to vision loss and blindness.

Treatments for vision loss depend on the cause. Below are different treatment options for certain causes of vision loss.

Treating AMD

There is currently no treatment for early stage AMD. If a person has intermediate AMD, their doctor may recommend that they take dietary supplements to help prevent it from turning into late AMD.

Wet AMD is a less common type of AMD that causes faster vision loss. If a person has wet AMD, a doctor may recommend anti-VEGF drugs and photodynamic therapy.

Treating cataracts

If a person has early stage cataracts, they may be able to make the following changes to manage them:

• using brighter lights at home or work
• wearing anti-glare sunglasses
• using magnifying lenses for reading and other activities

A new prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses can help a person see better with cataracts. If a person’s cataracts start to get in the way of everyday activities, a doctor may suggest they have surgery to remove them.

Treating DR

Treatment for DR cannot undo damage to a person’s vision. However, treatment can stop a person’s vision from getting worse. Treatment options for DR include:

• Injections: A doctor may inject anti-VEGF drugs into the eye to slow down or reverse DR.
• Laser treatment: Laser treatment can reduce swelling in the retina. Doctors can also use lasers to make the blood vessels shrink and stop leaking.
• Eye surgery: If the retina is bleeding a lot or there is excessive scarring in the eye, an eye doctor may recommend a type of surgery called a vitrectomy.

Treating glaucoma

Treatment for glaucoma cannot undo the damage to the eye. However, treatment can prevent the damage from becoming worse. Treatments for glaucoma include:

• Medications: Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma. They lower the pressure in the eye and prevent damage to a person’s optic nerve.
• Laser treatment: Doctors can use lasers to drain fluid from the eye to reduce pressure.
• Surgery: If medications and laser treatment do not work, a doctor may suggest surgery. There are a number of types of surgery that can help drain fluid out of the eye.

To help prevent vision loss and maintain good eye health, the CDC suggests:

• visiting an eye doctor for a regular comprehensive dilated eye exam
• carefully managing:
  • blood sugar levels
  • blood pressure
  • cholesterol
• being aware of family eye health history
• eating a healthy, balanced diet
• maintaining a moderate weight
• wearing protective eyewear where necessary
• avoiding smoking
• wearing sunglasses that block out 99–100% of both UVA and UVB radiation
• taking regular screen breaks
• properly cleaning hands and contact lenses

If a person notices a change in their vision, they should contact an eye doctor right away. This is because early diagnosis and treatment are very important for a number of eye conditions, as they can help prevent any damage to the eye from worsening.

The term “vision loss” can refer to either the complete or partial loss of vision. Common symptoms of vision loss include blurred vision, the presence of spots in central vision, and the loss of peripheral vision.

There are a number of possible causes of vision loss, including AMD, cataracts, DR, and glaucoma. If a person experiences signs of vision loss, they should contact an eye doctor right away. This is because early treatment is important in helping prevent further damage to the eye.

What are the symptoms of going blind?

The term “vision loss” can refer to either the complete or partial loss of vision. When a person begins to experience sight loss, they may experience a variety of symptoms, such as blurred vision, the presence of spots in their central vision, and the loss of peripheral vision.

Vision loss is a common occurrence. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 12 million people in the United States above 40 years of age have vision impairment. This includes 1 million people who have blindness.

In this article, we outline the symptoms of vision loss and discuss the potential causes of blindness. We also list possible treatments and tips for healthy eyes.

If a person is experiencing sight loss, they may develop a number of symptoms. These can include:

• blurred vision
• hazy vision and cloudiness
• wavy lines or spots in their central vision
• restricted peripheral vision
• poor vision at night or in the dark
• difficulty seeing colors

Below are some of the potential causes of vision loss.

Age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when aging causes damage to the macula. The macula is a part of the retina. It controls sharp, straight-ahead vision. When AMD causes damage to the macula, it can blur a person’s central vision.

AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults. It does not cause complete blindness, but losing the central vision can make it harder to:

• see faces
• read
• drive
• do close-up work, such as cooking or fixing things

Cataracts

A cataract is a cloudy area that appears in the lens of the eye. The lens is the clear part of the eye that helps focus light. Most cataracts develop due to natural changes in the eye as a person ages.

When a person is young, their lens is often clear. Then, as they age, proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump together. These clumps cause the lens in the eye to become cloudy, causing cataracts.

Cataracts can take time to develop, and a person may not notice they have a cataract at first. Over time, the cataract can worsen, making a person’s vision:

• blurry
• hazy
• less colorful

Cataracts are a major cause of blindness around the world.

Diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a potential complication of diabetes. DR occurs when diabetes causes damage to the blood vessels of the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. DR varies in severity depending on the number of blocked blood vessels, but it can lead to permanent vision loss.

According to the CDC, DR is the leading cause of blindness among adults in the U.S.

In the early stages of DR, a person may not experience any symptoms. Others may experience symptoms such as having trouble reading or seeing objects that are far away. These changes may come and go. In the later stages of DR, a person may see floating spots or streaks in their vision.

Early diagnosis and treatment of DR can help reduce the risk of vision loss. However, around 50% of people with DR receive a diagnosis that is too late for treatment to be effective.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the name for a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve. This is the nerve present at the back of the eye.

In its early stages, glaucoma may not cause a person to develop any symptoms. Over time they may start to slowly lose their vision. This often begins with peripheral vision.

Currently, there is no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment can help stop damage to the optic nerve and protect a person’s vision. Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to vision loss and blindness.

Treatments for vision loss depend on the cause. Below are different treatment options for certain causes of vision loss.

Treating AMD

There is currently no treatment for early stage AMD. If a person has intermediate AMD, their doctor may recommend that they take dietary supplements to help prevent it from turning into late AMD.

Wet AMD is a less common type of AMD that causes faster vision loss. If a person has wet AMD, a doctor may recommend anti-VEGF drugs and photodynamic therapy.

Treating cataracts

If a person has early stage cataracts, they may be able to make the following changes to manage them:

• using brighter lights at home or work
• wearing anti-glare sunglasses
• using magnifying lenses for reading and other activities

A new prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses can help a person see better with cataracts. If a person’s cataracts start to get in the way of everyday activities, a doctor may suggest they have surgery to remove them.

Treating DR

Treatment for DR cannot undo damage to a person’s vision. However, treatment can stop a person’s vision from getting worse. Treatment options for DR include:

• Injections: A doctor may inject anti-VEGF drugs into the eye to slow down or reverse DR.
• Laser treatment: Laser treatment can reduce swelling in the retina. Doctors can also use lasers to make the blood vessels shrink and stop leaking.
• Eye surgery: If the retina is bleeding a lot or there is excessive scarring in the eye, an eye doctor may recommend a type of surgery called a vitrectomy.

Treating glaucoma

Treatment for glaucoma cannot undo the damage to the eye. However, treatment can prevent the damage from becoming worse. Treatments for glaucoma include:

• Medications: Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma. They lower the pressure in the eye and prevent damage to a person’s optic nerve.
• Laser treatment: Doctors can use lasers to drain fluid from the eye to reduce pressure.
• Surgery: If medications and laser treatment do not work, a doctor may suggest surgery. There are a number of types of surgery that can help drain fluid out of the eye.

To help prevent vision loss and maintain good eye health, the CDC suggests:

• visiting an eye doctor for a regular comprehensive dilated eye exam
• carefully managing:
  • blood sugar levels
  • blood pressure
  • cholesterol
• being aware of family eye health history
• eating a healthy, balanced diet
• maintaining a moderate weight
• wearing protective eyewear where necessary
• avoiding smoking
• wearing sunglasses that block out 99–100% of both UVA and UVB radiation
• taking regular screen breaks
• properly cleaning hands and contact lenses

If a person notices a change in their vision, they should contact an eye doctor right away. This is because early diagnosis and treatment are very important for a number of eye conditions, as they can help prevent any damage to the eye from worsening.

The term “vision loss” can refer to either the complete or partial loss of vision. Common symptoms of vision loss include blurred vision, the presence of spots in central vision, and the loss of peripheral vision.

There are a number of possible causes of vision loss, including AMD, cataracts, DR, and glaucoma. If a person experiences signs of vision loss, they should contact an eye doctor right away. This is because early treatment is important in helping prevent further damage to the eye.

Ophthalmologist Kuskov listed signs of books that really deprive us of vision

• Lifestyle

If you are an avid reader, then you need to know a few rules on how to read so as not to harm your eyesight. Otherwise, a pleasant and useful habit will harm your eyes.

December 1, 2022

Source:

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For a long time, people with glasses were associated with intellectuals. It was believed that if a person wears glasses, it means that he reads a lot. Does reading books really reduce your eyesight? And how to read to protect your eyes? These questions are answered by ophthalmologist Alexander Kuskov.

— To begin with, reading is not only necessary for erudition and general knowledge, but also useful for the brain, this is the best prevention of dementia in old age. Our eye is a visual analyzer, part of the nervous system, an organ that helps us see. Therefore, limiting yourself to reading in order to preserve your eyesight is simply stupid. Another thing is to create favorable conditions so that it is comfortable to receive information from the book and not overwork the eyes.

Our eye makes an incalculable number of movements while reading, running from line to line, looking into the space behind the book. The muscles of the ciliary body inside the eye constantly tense and relax to change the curvature of the lens and focus the image far and near. Like any muscle in our body, eye muscles can overwork . The following symptoms testify to this:

Disorders of this nature have a medical name asthenopia.

At the same time, when we read with enthusiasm, we blink less, which causes drying of the eye surface and also increases discomfort.

Read also

In order to avoid such conditions and make reading comfortable for the eyes, it is important to remember a few important rules.

Turn on the light!

When reading , the light on the book should fall from the left side, and the light source – a lamp or a window – should be slightly behind . The table lamp should have a 40-60 watt warm light bulb. The optimal distance from the light source to the book is 50-60 cm.

The pages of the book should be evenly lit, without shadows and “bunnies”. If you are reading an e-book, then it is better to use special monochrome tablets, the screens of which are close to reading from a paper book, do not glare and do not emit light in the blue spectrum.

If you have to read from your phone or computer monitor, then it is recommended use monitors with oled or ips screen matrix, with good backlight, color reproduction and wide viewing angles and high Hz.

See also

Straighten your back!

It is best to read sitting at a table, sitting straight and not slouching, leaning on the back of a chair or armchair, to prevent strain and curvature of the spine. The book or text should be located at a distance of at least 40 cm from the eyes.

Avoid reading lying down no matter how comfortable it may seem. When reading lying down, we do not observe the required distance from the eyes to the book (30-40 cm). If the book is located closer than this distance, the eye muscles are overstrained, the tension provokes their fatigue. This is expressed by pain, dryness of the eyes, and there is also a feeling of a veil before the eyes. In nearsighted people, this can exacerbate the progression of myopia. Also, with the wrong position of the neck, blood flow to the brain and, accordingly, to the eyes is disturbed.

See also

Pause!

Both while working at the computer and in the process of reading, it is necessary to rest your eyes approximately once every 15 minutes . To do this, it is enough to break away from reading and look at distant objects or into the distance to relax the muscles of the ciliary body.

It will also be useful to use “artificial tear” moisturizing drops when reading and working at a computer for a long time to prevent the eye surface from drying out.

Read also

What about the font and paper

For printing books, offset paper is most often used, slightly matte, with a rough surface, a pleasant milky or beige hue. It does not create glare like coated or glossy paper. But the latter is often used in the printing of advertising booklets and brochures, which we also read, and for children’s books – for children, by the way, this is only good.

What should be the ideal paper for reading? Not 100% white, not translucent, but still creating enough contrast with the font.

It is better to choose a straight, sans-serif font , its eye reads easier and at the same time less overtired. As for its size, the ideal size for printing adult books is from 10th to 12th . For children, and also if the book is intended for older readers, larger fonts are used.

Text author:Daria Gapionok

Cataract – symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

The lens is a natural lens inside the eye, located between the iris and the vitreous body, it refracts light rays and passes them to the retina. By nature, this lens has a transparent color, but injuries, age-related changes, birth defects can cause clouding and thickening of the lens, that is, cause a cataract. This disease can affect one or both eyes at once. Cataract is a very common disease: according to WHO, approximately one in two people who have lost their sight lost it because of this pathology.

From the Greek kataraktes is translated as “waterfall”. The name emphasizes the essence of the diagnosis: a person sees as if through a waterfall, a veil or frosted glass. A clouded lens transmits light worse, so patients begin to see worse. Over time, the disease can lead to total blindness in the affected eye.

Cataract is an irreversible disease, but, fortunately, it develops gradually and this process can be slowed down with a well-chosen course of treatment. Depending on the cause, the individual characteristics of the patient’s body and the medical methods used, the process of disease development takes an average of 4-15 years. 70% of patients lose their sight after an average of 10 years.

Types of cataracts

Congenital cataract

Cataract is one of the most common visual defects in babies. Almost half of all ophthalmic diseases that develop in a fetus during a woman’s pregnancy or in a child in the first year of life due to a history of other pathologies fall to her share. The main distinguishing characteristic of pathology, in addition to the fact that it accompanies a person from the moment of birth, is that it almost never progresses.

In children, partial and complete cataracts are equally common, in the second case, clouding affects the entire lens: the child is born blind, usually in both eyes.

A cataract develops due to a violation of the intrauterine formation of the body. The exact causes of congenital anomalies can be determined by a doctor, the most common:

• genetic predisposition;
• influence on the body of a pregnant woman of radiation or toxins, poor ecology;
• smoking;
• drinking alcohol both before and during pregnancy;
• taking certain medications;
• past viral and infectious diseases, mainly during pregnancy, but in some situations even before it;
• diabetes mellitus;
• malnutrition;
• vitamin deficiency;
• injuries.

The symptoms of the disease in babies differ from those in adults, as the newborn cannot assess or report his or her health condition. Parents should see a doctor if:

• the child squints his eyes;
• the child does not fix his eyes on anything;
• the child starts acting up in bright light;
• there are spots on the child’s eyes;
• baby’s eyes often twitch;
• The pupil of one eye differs in color from the pupil of the other.

In some situations, the diagnosis remains with the patient until the end of life, but modern advances in medicine can improve the patient’s condition. Many parents are interested in how cataracts are treated in childhood. There are two methods:

• drug therapy;
• surgical intervention.

Usually it is the operation that helps children avoid lifelong blindness, protects the retina and preserves the accommodation of the eye. If the child has a congenital cataract, it is better not to postpone the appointment of an ophthalmologist and the operation: if the child does not see objects, then the retina does not develop, which means it will not function even when the lens is replaced, and full vision will not return.

Acquired cataract

According to statistics, every sixth person over 40 years of age has an acquired or age-related cataract, approximately 50% of people over 65 years old, 70% of people over 75 years old and almost 100% of people over 80 years old.

Cataracts develop due to the natural aging processes of the body: with age, the proteins that make up the lens of the eye begin to disintegrate, and the more they are destroyed, the lower the visual acuity.

Unfortunately, even if the patient protects the retina, regularly visits a specialist and follows his recommendations, the disease cannot be avoided. But it is possible to delay the onset of the development of the disease and slow down its course, so that the clouded lens of the eye affects the quality of life as little as possible.

Age-related cataract begins to develop asymptomatically, only a regular consultation with an ophthalmologist can help in making a diagnosis. Protect your health: book an appointment with us at your nearest optician.

Traumatic cataract

Blows, contusions, penetrating wounds, exposure to chemicals and other factors may also cause cataracts. Injury to the organs of vision or the head can adversely affect the lens of the eye, due to which various diseases of the affected eye develop. Children and production workers are at risk.

As a rule, a cataract appears within a month after the injury. It all starts with a decrease in vision, and it is this that becomes the reason to consult a doctor. Over time, the disease progresses. Therefore, it is especially important to make an appointment with a doctor and undergo a diagnosis. A number of measures make it possible to stop the spread of the disease, maintain the accommodation of the eye, and timely treatment of cataracts of the eye helps to maintain vision and avoid disability, if possible.

Secondary complicated cataract

Primary cataract is usually corrected by surgery. But, unfortunately, it cannot be guaranteed that the disease will never return. Fibrotic changes in the posterior capsule of the lens of the eye can develop both a few months and many years after surgery. A recurring disease is called a secondary complicated cataract.

Secondary cataract develops for a number of reasons, including:

• taking hormonal or other drugs;
• metabolic disorder;
• diabetes mellitus;
• effects of radiation;
• injuries;
• malnutrition;
• vitamin deficiency;
• immunosuppression;
• over 60 years of age.

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Stages of cataract development

1. Initial. The clouding of the lens begins, but it passes almost asymptomatically: the eyes may itch, black “flies” may fly in front of them, objects may look slightly yellowish, bright light may irritate. If patients have farsightedness, it may temporarily disappear.
2. Immature cataract. Opacities formed along the edges of the lens begin to merge, new opacities appear in the center. Immature cataract is already felt by patients, so they go to the doctor. This stage is optimal for the operation.
3. Mature cataract (usually a complete cataract). The disease develops within 1-3 years. The entire lens becomes cloudy and dense, so the patient loses sight and only reacts to light. A mature cataract is diagnosed with the naked eye, as the color of the pupil changes at this stage. But for accurate diagnosis, the doctor uses biomicroscopy – the method allows you to study the anterior chamber of the eye, since the back layers can no longer be seen. Mature cataract is treated only by surgery, and manipulation should not be postponed. Immediate surgical intervention protects the retina, restores eye accommodation, visual acuity and overall eye health.
4. Overmature cataract. The eye at this stage looks unaesthetic and even frightening: the pupil becomes completely light, large, white spots appear on it. The lens can be dehydrated, its nucleus can sink down, the protein structures can completely decompose and dissolve. Overripe cataracts look like they don’t have a pupil at all, which is why many patients fear the treatment won’t work. Their fears are justified, but even at this stage there is an opportunity to get good results.

Even a mature cataract is not a sentence. At the appointment, the doctor will examine the anterior chamber of the eye, assess the condition of the retina and other tissues, select the most appropriate method of surgery and help restore vision and accommodation of the eye, as far as it is possible.

Causes of cataracts

1. Age. 90% of all cataract patients are elderly.
2. Trauma. 4% of patients have cataracts caused by some kind of trauma. To avoid an unpleasant diagnosis, when working in production, riding a motorcycle and in a number of other cases, use a helmet, special goggles, hard hat or other device that covers the face and thereby protects the retina.
3. Radiation exposure. This cause accounts for about 3% of patients. When working in adverse conditions, it is also necessary to choose a tool that protects the retina from negative effects.
4. Congenital pathologies. Congenital cataract is diagnosed in 3% of patients. Doctor’s appointment should not be postponed until later. The ophthalmologist will determine the severity of the disease and give recommendations for treatment, regardless of the cause of congenital anomalies.

The development of the disease does not depend on gender, lifestyle and other factors. Although a number of patients believe that constant reading, working at a computer or watching TV can provoke cataracts in one eye or both. That is why we do not recommend constantly straining your eyes: be sure to give them a rest in order to maintain accommodation of the eye and avoid other diseases, such as decreased vision, the development of dry eye syndrome, nervous tics, etc.

There are also factors that also affect the appearance of pathology. So, there is a cataract in patients with impaired metabolism, diabetes, beriberi, eye diseases. The development of cataracts can be provoked by smoking, drinking alcohol, poor environmental conditions.

Cataract symptoms

The lens of the eye is located behind the iris. Its task is to focus the resulting image on the retina. When it becomes cloudy and ceases to perform this task, this manifests itself in various symptoms:

1. Decreased visual acuity. Cataracts are mainly manifested by a deterioration in vision, primarily at night, and patients also note that the contours of objects begin to double or distort. The situation is practically not corrected either with the help of glasses or with the help of contact lenses: even if you manage to find suitable correction methods, after some time you will have to change them. By the time a patient develops a mature cataract, vision is significantly reduced.
2. Color perception changes. Unlike colorblind patients, the patients themselves continue to distinguish colors, as before. But their brightness decreases: everything seems dimmer, as if in a fog.
3. Eyes become sensitive to light. Eyes may water, hurt, squint in the sun, there may be an urgent need for bright light, especially when reading, working at a computer, or in other situations where concentration is necessary.
4. Around light sources, patients begin to see various reflections, circles, etc.
5. Pupil color changes. Mature cataract is characterized by white, gray or light gray pupils.

These cataract symptoms are also characteristic of other diseases, so you should not engage in self-diagnosis – at the first alarming signs, you need to see a doctor. Only a competent specialist will make the correct diagnosis and select an adequate treatment for eye cataracts, which protects the retina and preserves the health of other tissues.

Cataract diagnostics

Regular diagnostics of eye diseases – visual acuity, visual fields, assessment of the condition of the fundus, measurement of intraocular pressure, eye biomicroscopy, etc. – allows you to make or exclude an unpleasant diagnosis. Usually the ophthalmologist is limited to classical methods and does not resort to special techniques. A more thorough diagnosis is necessary only when the patient is preparing for surgery. Then the doctor must assess the condition of the tissues inside the eye.

Ophthalmologists recommend: do not delay your visit to the doctor, make an appointment if something bothers you, and do not forget about routine checks. This simple prevention protects the retina of the eye, allows you to determine the cause of the decrease in vision and restore its sharpness.

Complications of late diagnosis

In the first stages, the disease can proceed without visible symptoms: all changes usually occur at the periphery of the lens, and the optic zone remains intact. Only early diagnosis allows you to make a correct diagnosis and see how the biochemical processes proceed, whether the proteins that make up the lens are destroyed.

After some time, the turbidity passes to the central part. It is at this stage that patients most often go to the doctor. But some ignore the symptoms and turn only when the pupil changes color, vision is reduced significantly.

What are the dangers of late diagnosis?

1. Blindness. The optic nerve, which sends signals to the brain, may stop functioning and the patient will go blind.
2. Dislocation of the lens. It can break away from the ligament holding it or move from its place.
3. Glaucoma. A cloudy and dense lens increases intraocular pressure.
4. Phacolytic iridocyclitis. The iris of the eye becomes inflamed, the eyes turn red, hurt.
5. Obscurative amblyopia. The retina ceases to function and respond to light, bright colors, etc.

Regular diagnostics allows to detect the disease at the initial stages and take timely measures to reduce the negative consequences of the disease. It is better to visit a specialist and get a “healthy” diagnosis than to miss a visit to the doctor because there are no complaints. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear.

Cataract treatment

Cataract is characterized by partial clouding of the lens of the eye and, unfortunately, despite a number of preventive measures, it is impossible to protect against this disease for sure, nor can this process be reversed. But medical procedures can slow down its development, completely recover and restore vision.

The most popular methods include drug therapy (drops) and cataract phacoemulsification (microsurgical operation to remove the lens from the affected eye and then install an intraocular lens).

Medical therapy

In the early stages of the disease, the doctor may recommend drops to patients. They have a beneficial effect on the metabolism in tissues, thereby slowing down the development of the disease. But no drugs are able to prevent or defeat the pathology completely and avoid surgical intervention.

Medical experts remind: all drops, ointments or other means should be bought only in cases where they have been prescribed by a doctor. In no case should you choose drugs on your own, relying only on advertising or recommendations from friends, as this is fraught with complications in one or both eyes.

Insertion of the intraocular lens

Insertion of a multifocal intraocular lens – surgical treatment of cataracts, which involves the replacement of the lens. The technique perfectly protects the retina.

The manipulation is minimally invasive: during the operation, the doctor makes a microscopic incision and through it changes the natural organ to an artificial lens (it contains acrylate or silicone). In the absence of complications, the patient does not have to go to a day hospital or hospital, the entire procedure takes place on an outpatient basis, without anesthesia (drip anesthesia is used, which affects only the area of ​​​​operation) and lasts an average of 20 minutes. It is easily tolerated by patients, does not affect the general state of health, in particular, the cardiovascular system, therefore it is suitable for people of all ages. The rate of successful operations is also impressive, it tends to 100%. After the operation, the patient can almost immediately return to his usual way of life, the restrictions are minimal and temporary.

Unfortunately, even a successful operation does not permanently protect the retina and does not give lifelong results. After some time (from several months to several years) after cataract removal, one can again encounter partial clouding of the substance of the lens of the eye – the reason is that the lens itself is covered with a special capsule; when removing the cataract, this capsule is saved and an artificial lens is placed in it. It is on this capsule that a secondary complicated cataract can develop. Modern methods make it possible to cope with this pathology: laser technologies restore health to the eyes in a few minutes. The procedure is painless and is also performed on an outpatient basis.

Modern multifocal intraocular lens has many advantages:

• special yellow filter protects the retina from ultraviolet radiation;
• aspherical component provides clear vision at any time of the day and in any light;
• the multiple optical foci present in multifocal lenses ensure clear vision whether the patient is looking into the distance or working with nearby objects, i.e. the artificial product takes over the accommodation of the eye.

Currently, medicine has advanced far enough, so the treatment of cataracts of the eye gives good results at any stage of the disease. A modern artificial lens is close to natural in its properties, it completely takes over its functions and protects the retina, due to which the effect of surgical treatment is simply amazing: vision is restored, the need for glasses or contact lenses disappears.

Contraindications for surgical treatment

The operation protects the retina and other tissues, but in some cases it will have to be abandoned or postponed for a while. Contraindications are:

1. Infectious eye diseases (conjunctivitis, blepharitis, etc.). Their presence usually does not affect the course of the operation itself, but causes complications after it. If an infection gets inside the eye, the consequences can be dire. Therefore, first of all, the doctor selects methods for treating infectious diseases, and only then removes the cataract.
2. Glaucoma. Increased intraocular pressure can lead to complications, one of them is bleeding, causing death of the eye. As in the case of infections, glaucoma must be treated before surgery, and only then vision can be restored.
3. Pregnancy and lactation. Even minimally invasive operations during pregnancy and breastfeeding are best avoided. The woman’s body experiences quite serious stress, and changes in hormonal levels also play a role, so the result of the operation during this period is more difficult to predict in advance. And, of course, do not forget about the risks to the fetus.

Postoperative period

Modern medicine makes it possible to minimize complications after surgery, but does not completely eliminate them. Therefore, in some situations, the eyes may swell, patients complain of inflammation, an increase in intraocular pressure. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs help to cope. Their doctor can prescribe both in the presence of complications, and for their prevention, if there are risks.

Doctor usually at discharge:

1. Picks up drops. It takes about two months to drip into the eyes – the effect of the drops protects the retina, accelerates regeneration processes, soothes, restores accommodation of the eye, etc.
2. Controls the dynamics of recovery . Regular visits to the doctor are necessary so that he assesses the patient’s state of health and, if necessary, adjusts the rehabilitation program.
3. Picks up a protective dressing . It is needed so that water, dust, elements contained in exhaust gases, dirty air, etc. do not get inside the eye. Also, the bandage well protects the retina and other tissues from infection and UV rays: the effect of ultraviolet radiation on the eyes is no less harmful than smoke.

After the operation, one should not rub, scratch, put pressure on the eye, sleep on the operated side, go to the bathhouse, swimming pool, sauna, play sports, drink alcohol, use cosmetics, read or work with documents for a month. Showering or washing your hair is prohibited for several days. When the doctor allows you to wash your hair, you need to do it with your eyes closed, and after the procedure, you need to drip drops into your eyes that the doctor picked up in advance – such a simple manipulation protects the retina and other tissues. In sunny weather, regardless of the season, you should wear high-quality sunglasses with a UV filter – it protects the retina from harmful radiation.

Prophylaxis

It is impossible to completely avoid eye disease, but there are ways to protect yourself, delay the disease, or alleviate and slow down its course.

1. Wear sunglasses. The effect of UV radiation on the eyes is enormous, which is why it is important to reduce it. But do not save on your health, do not buy cheap low-quality sunglasses, as they do not protect your eyes, but only darken the surrounding objects so that you do not have to squint. As for UV rays, they continue to enter through the glasses and cause damage to vision. The products presented on our website protect the retina well. It is important to us that you look stylish and stay healthy in any situation. Remember, sunglasses aren’t just for the sun. Glare from water and from snow also negatively affects the eyes.
2. Stop smoking, including passive smoking. Substances contained in cigarettes and smoke accelerate the aging process of the body in general and the lens in particular. And since age is one of the main causes of the development of pathology, smoking provokes its appearance. A healthy lifestyle has a positive effect on health and protects the retina.
3. Watch your health. Endocrine diseases, injuries, work in adverse conditions, etc. – the reasons for the development of age-related cataract. Therefore, do not run your health. In the presence of chronic pathologies, it is necessary to regularly check with a doctor.
4. Take your vitamins. Cataracts often develop in immunocompromised people with beriberi. Try to avoid these conditions. Discuss with your doctor which vitamins are best to take. Perhaps he will be able to pick up a complex for you that not only strengthens the entire body, but also protects the retina.
5. Do not self-medicate. Even if it is written on the drug or in the advertisement that the product protects the retina, you cannot buy it without a doctor’s recommendation.
6. See your doctor if you take various drugs for a long time. Don’t forget to get tested regularly and keep track of important life and health indicators.
7. Eat right.