Cataract is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide and represents a considerable health problem in society. Under progressive stress, the proteins of the lens structurally change causing them to turn opaque (similarly what happens to the protein when an egg is cooked). When the normally transparent lens becomes cloudy and progressively opaque, a cataract has formed. This causes a dramatic reduction in the amount of light being captured by the retina. The signal transmitter to the brain is interpreted and the image appears blurry. Cataracts occur most commonly in the elderly, with more than half of people aged over 75 with the condition.
Symptoms
- Blurred vision
- Dim vision
- Visual impairment
- Blindness
- Most cataracts do not produce pain
Causes
The development of cataracts is related to aging, sunlight exposure, smoking, poor nutrition, eye trauma, systemic diseases, genetic family history, and certain medications such as steroids. There is a high prevalence of cataract amongst developing countries as poor nutrition heavily impacts on the development of cataracts.
Treatment
During the early stages of cataract, specialized eye glasses may be beneficial to treat minor symptoms of visual impairment. Cataract surgery, to remove the cataract and replace the lens with a synthetic lens, is available but can be very expensive. With any surgery, there are risks such as infection and bleeding. A consultation with an ophthalmologist is necessary to fully understand the benefits and the risks, as each case is unique. There are no pharmaceutical drugs that treat the illness as the cataracts are irreversible.
Natural Therapies
As is the case in underdeveloped nations, cataracts are associated with poor health and nutrition. Antioxidants may be particularly beneficial such as vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin E, and the potent antioxidant rich fruit bilberry. Smoking cessation, sun protection, and regular eye examinations are all recommended in maintaining the health of your eyes and preventing the development of cataracts.
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References
- Kuzniarz, M., et al. (2001). Use of vitamin supplements and cataract: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. Am J Ophthalmol. 132(1):19-26.
