A cataract is the clouding of the normally clear lens of your eye causing blurred vision. Cataracts make it more difficult for you to see (especially at night), watch TV or drive.  Most cataracts develop slowly as you get older and will affect your eyesight when the clouding spreads to the centre of your lens.

Image MayoClinic

Symptoms

• Blurred or dim vision
• Difficulty with night vision
• Sensitivity to light or glare (especially driving into the sun)
• Need for more light to read
• Frequent changes in spectacle prescription

Click to view NIH video on Cataract

Causes

• Age-related is the most common cause (usually appear after the age of 50 years)
• Trauma or eye injury
• Previous eye surgery
• Long-term use of medication such as steroids
• Congenital cataracts

Treatment

Cataract surgery is recommended when your vision is affected to a point that it interferes with your lifestyle, work or ability to drive.  Phacoemulsification uses ultrasound energy to dissolve and remove the cataract without the need for stitches.  An Intra-Ocular Lens (IOL) will be implanted into the eye so that your vision can be restored.

Click to view BupaUk video on Cataract Surgery

How to Prepare for cataract surgery

• Have light breakfast (or fast from the night before, if you are undergoing general anaesthesia) on the day of surgery
• Shower and wash your face before going to the eye clinic / centre
• You may be given some eyedrops to apply the night before the surgery
• Do not apply any make up on your eye or face
• Do not drive yourself to the clinic / centre

How to Take Care after cataract surgery (during the 1st week)

• Avoid getting dirty water into your eye
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous sports
• Avoid rubbing hard on your eye
• Avoid eye make-up
• Apply the given eyedrops regularly as advised by your doctor (to prevent infection and to help healing)

It is important to undergo regular follow-up by your eye doctor after the surgery to ensure good healing

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