What are Cataracts? | A Basic Guide

You have almost definitely heard of cataracts, as they are a prevalent eye condition. However, you may not know precisely what they are and what they mean for your vision. This article will outline the basics of cataracts, what causes them, the risks associated with them, treatment options and where and when you should get tested. 

Read on if you’re intrigued or feel you may have symptoms you would like to understand better. 

Note. This article should not be taken as medical advice; every decision should be made with the support of a medical professional/clinician. 

The basics of cataracts 

Cataracts are a clouding of the lens that generally affects your vision and often deteriorates it. It is not always a cause for major concern, but it can have more serious effects or require more serious action. 

One in three adults over the age of 65 in the UK has some form of cataract, with this number increasing to over half past the age of 75. 

What causes cataracts?

As mentioned above, age is the primary contributor to the development of cataracts. However, some other factors can add to your risk, including:  

• Diabetes (type 1 or 2)
• Previous eye surgeries or injuries  
• Long-term use of medications that affect the eyes 
• Smoking or drinking alcohol excessively 

What are the risks of cataracts?

1 in 20 people may have a less serious complication associated with cataracts, but 1 in 1000 have the risk of partial to full blindness. In fact, cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss globally. So, catching it early and receiving the appropriate treatment is essential. 

What are the treatments for cataracts? 

There are a few options for cataract treatment and these depend on how significantly you are affected by the condition. For many, cataracts are not painful; they may just worsen with time and cause minor to significant vision loss. 

Your optician may suggest that surgery is not necessary immediately; in this case, there are still measures you can take to slow the progression of your vision decline. For example, you can reduce how much you smoke or drink, wear sunglasses in sunlight and better control your medical conditions. You may also make some adaptations to your everyday life to help your transition, such as reading in larger fonts and wearing prescription glasses. 

Your optician may recommend that cataract surgery is the best route for you, or you may feel you would rather get surgery to resolve the issue. Cataract surgery is usually quick and the healing process generally takes up to 6 weeks. During this time, your vision will be blurry, but this recovers fully in 80-90% of people. 

Always ensure that any treatments align with your wider medical plan and your doctor or optician’s overarching advice.

Where should I get my eyes tested for cataracts?

Optometrists should be trained to identify cataracts, as they are so common. Ask an optician if you are concerned and they will likely ask you a series of questions and examine your eye carefully. 

When choosing an optician, look for a well-reviewed, experienced local option. For example, if you live in South London, check the surrounding areas that are easy to get to and from your home – research opticians: Dulwich, Purley, Crystal Palace and Sydenham. 

However, for more serious treatments, many people opt for NHS surgery. This is up to you, though, as wait times in private practices are likely much lower. 

When should I get tested for cataracts?

If you have any concerns with your vision, you should be getting routine check-ups and your opticians should notice if you’re affected by cataracts. 

Otherwise, you may have experienced symptoms such as blurred or double vision, a change in colour perception, etc. In this case (especially if you’re over 40), book an assessment to catch it and start the appropriate treatment as quickly as possible. 

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.