Check this read on cataracts and cataract eye surgery

A cataract happens when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy. The lens is a part of your eye that helps focus light, so you can see things clearly. As you get older, the lens becomes less flexible, less clear, and thicker. Proteins and fibres in the lens can break down and stick together, making it cloudy.

As the cataract gets worse, it becomes denser and blocks the light from passing through the lens. This makes your vision blurry because the clear image cannot reach the back of your eye called the retina. Cataracts usually develop in both eyes, but they may not grow at the same speed. One eye may have a more advanced cataract than the other, which can cause differences in how well you see with each eye.

When your cataracts reach a point where they significantly impact your daily life or hinder activities like reading or driving at night, cataract surgery becomes an effective treatment option. It's important to have a discussion with your eye doctor to determine if surgery is suitable for you.

If you decide not to undergo surgery at this time, your eye doctor may recommend periodic follow-up exams to monitor the progression of your cataracts. The frequency of these visits will depend on your individual circumstances.

Here we discuss some of the useful insights on cataracts and cataract surgery:

1. Each eye is independent in terms of cataract development. If you have a cataract in one eye, it does not mean that the other eye will automatically develop a cataract as well.

2. By the time most people reach 80 years old, they either have cataracts or have undergone cataract surgery.

3. Safeguarding your eyes from cataracts involves taking proactive measures:

• Shield your eyes from the sun: Wear sunglasses with UV protection and a hat with a brim to block harmful sun rays and reduce the risk of cataract formation.

• Prevent eye injuries: When engaging in activities that pose a risk of eye injury, such as using power tools or participating in certain sports, prioritise wearing protective eyewear to safeguard your eyes from accidental harm.

  

• Quit smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of cataracts. 

• Opt for eye-healthy foods: Make conscious choices when it comes to your diet by including a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains contain beneficial antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to eye health.

4. Cataract surgery is a highly prevalent procedure in India and is considered one of the safest surgeries performed.

5. Cataract surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you do not need to stay in the hospital overnight. The surgery is conducted under the effect of a local anaesthetic, which numbs the area around your eye. While undergoing cataract surgery, you will usually remain awake throughout the procedure. This allows you to communicate with your eye doctor and follow their instructions, ensuring a smooth and successful surgery. The use of local anaesthesia provides comfort during the surgery while allowing you to return home on the same day, as no hospital stay is required.

6. Cataract surgery for both eyes is known as bilateral cataract surgery. The decision to perform bilateral cataract surgery depends on various factors, including your overall health, the severity of cataracts in both eyes, and the recommendation of the eye surgeon. 

7. Cataract surgery involves the removal of the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). This artificial lens is positioned in the same location as your natural lens and becomes a permanent part of your eye.

Looking for an eye hospital in West Bengal for cataract eye surgery?

Visit Disha Eye Hospitals. Their team of highly skilled and experienced ophthalmologists is committed to delivering personalised care and excellent outcomes for every patient. You can expect state-of-the-art facilities and advanced surgical techniques at their hospitals.