Manipal Hospitals

Know all about Cataract Disorder: Myths and Facts

Reviewed by: Dr. Kaushik Dhume

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Cataracts are characterised by the presence of cloudiness caused by the natural lens of the eyes, resulting in blurry vision with decreased contrast sensitivity, issues with night vision, and glare. The main cause of cataracts is the accumulation of protein on the typically clear lens of the eyes.

Cataracts are known as one of the leading causes of blindness that has affected almost 20 million individuals globally. The normally clear lens that focuses light behind the iris and pupil ages with the eyes, turning yellow and clouded with protein and dead cells. As the individual ages, their body replaces old and dead cells more slowly, which results in cataracts. Book an appointment at Manipal Hospitals Goa for the best cataract treatment.

Despite the fact that cataract is the most prevalent preventable cause of blindness in the world, there are many misconceptions regarding this condition. Some of them are illustrated below:

  • Myth: Cataracts can be corrected using eye drops.

  • Fact: Cataracts cannot be corrected using eye drops.

Any kind of eye drop won't be able to dissolve a cataract. As the individual becomes older, their lenses begin to change in shape, causing cataracts. The damaged lens must be removed and replaced with a synthetic lens as the sole effective treatment for cataracts.

  • Myth: Lifestyle changes are effective in curing cataracts.

  • Fact: Lifestyle changes won’t reverse cataracts.

One cannot restore a lens that has become coated with aged proteins and dead cells. Although maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise may help prevent cataracts, the damaged lenses cannot be "fixed." Visit Manipal Hospitals for Cataract treatment in Goa.

  • Myths: Only aged people have a greater chance of developing cataracts.

  • Facts: Some young people may also have cataracts.

Although cataracts are an ageing-related disease, they can sometimes occur in younger people. Cataracts can develop in your eyes as a result of changes brought on by several drugs, such as corticosteroids. Congenital cataracts are the form of cataracts that some infants are born with.

  • Myth: Cataracts are caused by more reading and close work.

  • Fact: Cataracts cannot be caused through habits.

If someone has a cataract, the person finds difficulty in reading and performing close work such as sewing or craft projects. However, taking part in such activities will not harm the lens.

  • Myth: Cataract surgery is dangerous.

  • Fact: Cataract surgery is safe.

One of the most popular and secure treatments includes cataract surgery, which accounts for a 95% success rate. Avoid any heavy lifting or bending for a few days after the surgery. The health condition can improve immediately a few weeks after the surgery. Consult with our Ophthalmologist in Goa for more clarity.

  • Myth: Cataracts may develop again after surgery.

  • Fact: Cataracts cannot develop again after surgery.

The damaged lens cannot regrow once it has been removed. The membrane that supports the new synthetic lens degrades with age, which causes some people to experience visual problems once more. However, that issue can be rapidly, securely, and easily fixed with a 15-minute in-office laser procedure.

  • Myths: All cataracts should be removed.

  • Fact: Surgery is still required if the visuals are clear enough.

The individual does not always need surgery if the ophthalmologist discovers a cataract during the eye examination. Cataracts form over a long period of time. The individual can put off surgery or possibly never need it as long as their vision is still good.

  • Myth: Cataracts are inevitable.

  • Fact: Good habits give protection to the eyes.

Even though excellent habits can't reverse or prevent cataracts, they can protect the lens's health. When someone is outside, the person needs to shield their eyes with a cap and UV-protective sunglasses to avoid damage from the sun's UVA and UVB rays, which also harm their skin.

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