Getting a cataract diagnosis from your ophthalmologist may sound scary. However, it is a rather common eye ailment. In a study done in 2023 by the World Health Organization, it is stated that the leading causes of vision impairment and blindness at a global level are refractive errors and cataracts. The report also states that 17% of people with vision impairment due to cataracts have received access to an appropriate intervention.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cataracts, there is no reason to panic. Cataract is a treatable ailment, and it is necessary to understand what it is and how it is treated.
Cataracts are natural clouding of the eye’s lens. It can affect your sight and hamper your daily life. It is, however, treatable with cataract eye surgery.
Cataract surgery is a medical procedure that removes the clouded lens from the eye. When an individual is diagnosed with cataracts, their natural lens will have a white cloud formation. This causes blurriness in vision and can also cause sensitivity to bright light.
An eye surgeon or ophthalmologist may suggest a cataract operation procedure based on the severity of your vision impairment, your lifestyle needs, and any long-term conditions like diabetes.
While there may be no harm in waiting for cataract treatment, it is better to check with your doctor to understand the best course of action, as it depends on many factors.
The lens of the eye contains proteins that may degrade and clump together over time, causing cloudiness, known as cataracts.
There are multiple causes, which include:
Doctors and researchers have also said that habits like excessive smoking or drinking alcohol may cause cataracts to form faster.
The only way to get rid of cataracts is through a cataract operation. After the surgery, you may notice that your vision has become sharper, see colours better, and you are not bothered by bright lights. In some cases, one of the benefits of this procedure is that you may no longer need to rely on glasses for reading or watching television.
While a cataract can be visible to the ophthalmologist, the doctor will still need to diagnose you. Diagnosis is done through the following tests:
Once you have been diagnosed with cataracts, surgery is the only option. However, if it is in the early stages, there are a few treatment options that you can try:
A cataract eye surgery may not be as complicated as other surgeries. However, it is always better to take precautions before it. As a precautionary measure, your ophthalmologist may conduct tests, such as blood tests, ECG, and urine tests, depending on your overall health condition.
They will also need to measure the length and curvature of the eyeball. This helps them calculate the power of the new lens that needs to be inserted. This test will be done with a special ultrasound machine.
There are 3 ways to do cataract removal. These include:
Once a patient is admitted, he can go home the same day. However, a few aftercare precautions need to be taken:
While cataract treatment through surgery is generally safe, every surgery has some risks and complications. Some risks and complications include bleeding, infection, inflammation, high pressure in the eye, haziness, and, in rare cases, retinal detachment.
You just need to be vigilant and follow the aftercare instructions that your surgeon has mentioned.
While there is no proven way to prevent cataracts, you can take measures to delay their progression.
Start with a healthy diet rich in Vitamins C and E and antioxidants. Eat fresh produce instead of packaged food. Nuts, berries, and green leafy vegetables can help boost immunity.
Go for regular eye checkups. While you do not need to go every month, make an appointment to see our eye doctor at least once a year. If you feel irritation, swelling, pain or a stye in the eye, head to your doctor immediately.
If possible, wear sunglasses and a hat when you step out in the sun. UV Rays can damage your retina.
Check your blood sugar and blood pressure regularly. People with diabetes are highly prone to getting cataracts sooner.
If you are opting for a cataract operation procedure, your ophthalmologist will do a complete eye checkup first and suggest the type of lens you should use. Your options would include:
A monofocal lens is a standard lens that can improve your distance vision. However, you may need glasses for intermediate vision.
A Toric Lens is used if you have astigmatism, which causes blurry vision. While a toric lens can correct astigmatism, you may still need reading glasses.
A Multifocal/Trifocal Lens reduces the need for glasses by significantly improving vision. These lenses improve intermediate and distance vision, but some patients may still need reading glasses for near vision.
Extended depth-of-focus Lenses are different from trifocal lenses. They are used to correct intermediate and distance vision.
Nethradhama is a Super Specialty Eye Hospital that provides world-class services to its patients. Its focus is on the patient without compromising on the quality of care.
The first NABH accredited hospital in India for maintaining national quality standards.
Nethradhama Eye Hospital has introduced many state-of-the-art equipment that were firsts both nationally and globally.
One of the lowest surgical complication rates worldwide with the help of highly experienced and skilled doctors
Efficient day care procedures with a low turn around time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
We have implemented comprehensive hygiene and safety protocols to provide a safe and clean environment for everyone.
Our patients always come first, and we strive to provide personalized and compassionate care to each and every patient who walks through our doors.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our cataract treatment options. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you regain your vision and independence.
Don't take our word for it - see what our patients have to say about the personalized care and exceptional service they received at Nethradhama.
This depends on the insurance provider and the terms and conditions they set. It is better to check with them before you go for the operation procedure.
If your vision is hampering your daily activities, speak to your ophthalmologist about a cataract surgery.
A mature cataract may increase the risks and complications during the surgery. So, it is better to diagnose and treat it as early as possible.
As a Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Nethradhama caters to elderly people with cataracts.
While ageing is one of the common causes of cataracts, young people can also have cataracts. It can be genetically passed or due to eye trauma.
Before cataract eye surgery, the surgeon administers anaesthesia eye drops to numb the eye. Local or general anaesthesia may also be used in some cases, depending on the patient’s status and the situation.
The cataract operation itself isn’t painful, as anaesthetic drops are administered before the surgery. However, there may be some discomfort after the surgery is done.
Avoid touching or rubbing the eye immediately. It is also advised to avoid getting water in the eye for a few days.
Most cataract treatments are outpatient procedures, and the patient is sent home on the same day. The procedure itself may take a little time. However, the surgeon may ask you to stay in the hospital for some time.
The need for spectacles after surgery depends on the type of lens used and the specifics of your vision needs. Your surgeon will guide you on this.
The recovery time for glaucoma surgery varies depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual patient. In general, patients can expect to experience some mild discomfort and blurred vision for a few days after surgery. Depending on the type of surgery, most patients are able to resume their normal activities within 2-4 weeks surgery.
Yes, daycare facility is available for glaucoma surgery at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital. Our advanced surgical facilities allow patients to undergo minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) or traditional glaucoma surgery and return home the same day.
The duration of glaucoma surgery at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital may vary depending on the type and complexity of the procedure. However, most surgeries take approximately 30 minutes to an hour to complete.
The frequency of follow-up visits at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital for glaucoma treatment may vary depending on the type and stage of glaucoma and the treatment plan. However, regular visits every three to six months may be necessary to monitor the progression of the disease and adjust the treatment as needed.
The cost of glaucoma treatment at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital may vary depending on the type of treatment, the stage of glaucoma, and other factors. Our team can provide a detailed estimate of the treatment cost after a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with the ophthalmologist.
Yes, glaucoma surgery at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital is safe and performed by experienced and skilled Glaucoma specialists using advanced surgical techniques and equipment. Our team takes utmost care to ensure the safety and comfort of our patients during and after the surgery.
Yes, although Glaucoma is more commonly associated with aging, it can also occur in younger people due to genetic factors, trauma, or certain medical conditions.
Yes, Glaucoma surgery requires local anesthesia, which numbs the eye. In some cases general anesthesia may be required. At Nethradhama we have a trained anesthesiologist present at the operation room at all times, for your safety and comfort.
Yes, after Glaucoma surgery, patients are advised to avoid rubbing the eye, touching the eye, engaging in strenuous activities, or getting water in the eye for a few weeks. Our Glaucoma specialists will provide detailed post-operative instructions and answer any questions you may have.
Yes, Glaucoma can be combined with Cataract surgery. Our experienced Glaucoma specialists will help you determine the best surgical option catered to your needs. The latest Micro Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries can be combined with cataract surgery.
