Eye health is an important factor that directly affects our quality of life. Cataract is a condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy due to aging or other factors.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Fading of colors
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty with night vision
- Double vision
What Are the Treatment Methods for Cataracts?
Surgery: Cataract treatment is usually performed through surgery. Modern surgical techniques involve removing the eye's lens and replacing it with an artificial lens (intraocular lens). This procedure is generally short, effective, and painless.
Phacoemulsification Surgery: This technique uses ultrasound energy to break up and remove the cataract.
Laser Surgery: In some cases, laser technology can also be used in cataract surgery.
How Can Cataracts Be Prevented?
While it may not be possible to completely prevent cataracts, adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular eye examinations, and wearing sunglasses can reduce the risk. Cataracts can be effectively treated with the options that modern medicine offers, improving quality of life. However, it is important to consult an eye specialist and create a personalized treatment plan for each case.
Cataract Surgery Post-Operative Infection Symptoms
Although infections and other complications after cataract surgery are rare, they should be carefully monitored. Infection may present symptoms such as eye pain, redness, vision loss, discharge, swelling, and sensitivity to light after surgery.
Severe eye pain and redness are common signs of an infection. If these symptoms increase or persist after surgery, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Similarly, a decrease in visual acuity may be a sign of infection.
Heavy discharge is another indication of eye infection. If this occurs around the eye and is unusual after surgery, you should consult your doctor. Edema and swelling around the eye could also be indicative of infection and might require treatment.
Who Are Suitable Candidates for Smart Lens Surgery?
Smart lens surgery is commonly preferred today for both cataract treatment and as a permanent solution for age-related vision defects. The surgery may not be suitable for everyone.
1. Individuals Diagnosed with Cataracts
Smart lenses are placed after the eye's lens is removed during cataract surgery. The surgery eliminates the cataract problem and allows the patient to see both near and far distances clearly. It is preferred by patients who live an active lifestyle and wish to be free from glasses.
2. Individuals Over 40 with Near Vision Issues
The condition of not being able to see near objects due to age, known as presbyopia, generally begins after the age of 40. Individuals who wish to avoid constantly using glasses can achieve clarity in both near and distant vision with the application of smart lenses.
3. Those Wanting Clear Vision for Both Near and Far
Individuals with refractive errors such as myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism who also need reading glasses due to age can achieve clear vision without relying on glasses or contact lenses.
4. Individuals with Suitable Cornea and Retina Structure
A detailed eye examination is conducted before smart lens surgery. The general health of the eye, and the condition of the retina and cornea, are among the determining factors for the surgery. If the eye structure is suitable for the surgical process, smart lens treatment can be applied.
5. Individuals with Controlled Diabetes or Systemic Diseases
Individuals with systemic diseases such as diabetes may be suitable for surgery if their general health is good and they do not have serious diabetes-related eye complications.
Is Non-Surgical Cataract Treatment Possible?
Although research on non-surgical methods for cataract treatment is ongoing, cataracts cannot be treated with medication. Eye drops or drugs may slow the progression of cataracts, but they cannot restore a cloudy lens to its original state. Therefore, non-surgical cataract treatment is not possible under current medical knowledge.
How Can the Development of Cataracts Be Prevented?
You can prevent cataract formation by applying simple but effective methods in your daily life.
Protecting Eyes from the Sun
Long-term exposure to UV rays can cause damage to the lens of the eye. Using sunglasses, especially with UV-protected lenses, can slow this process.
Reducing Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol use can damage eye tissues through oxidative stress. Reducing these habits positively affects eye health.
Healthy Diet
A diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and supplemented with antioxidants, can help protect eye cells from the damage of free radicals. Green leafy vegetables, carrots, fish, and nuts can be supportive in this regard.
Control of Diabetes and Chronic Diseases
Systemic diseases like diabetes can accelerate the development of cataracts. Maintaining balanced blood sugar is a critical precaution for eye health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cataracts heal on their own?
No, cataracts are a progressively worsening eye condition and do not heal on their own. Surgical intervention is required for treatment.
How long does cataract surgery take?
Cataract surgery typically lasts between 30 to 40 minutes. The procedure is painless, and patients can usually be discharged on the same day.
Do cataracts recur after surgery?
Once a cataract is removed, it does not recur. However, the membrane behind the lens may occasionally thicken, which can be treated with laser surgery.
Do you need glasses after cataract surgery?
Whether glasses are needed after cataract surgery depends on the individual's personal vision ability and the type of lens used. Factors such as pre-operative examinations, intraocular lens measurements, and the surgeon's experience in relation to surgical techniques are important for this specific matter.