Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss all around the world. So, if you have cloudy vision, it might be a cataract. There are many misconceptions about cataracts including their treatment and prevention.
Here’s a myth-buster to learn about cataracts and its treatment.
Myth 1: Cataract only affects the aged
Fact: Although cataracts are common in old age but can occur at any time. In few cases, symptoms may not come to light until years. In cases where cataracts developed at an early age it can be congenital, hereditary or it might have developed following ocular or peribulbar trauma. It can also occur in some systemic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, nutritional deficiencies, stress, etc.
Myth 2: Yoga, diet, and eyedrops can prevent/dissolve the cataract
Fact: It is one of the most common misconceptions. The development of cataracts is a natural aging process and cannot be prevented or dissolved by any eye drop or lifestyle change. There is not a single FDA proven eye-drop which can prevent, delay, or dissolve cataract. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, blocking UV rays with sunglasses can slow down its progression.
Myth 3: Cataract can grow back
Fact: Cataract is characterised by cloudiness of the clear lens of the eye. It happens when the transparent proteins in the lens lose their elasticity and begin to clump together. So when a person undergoes cataract surgery the cloudy lens is replaced with a new artificial lens and Hence, it cannot grow back.
Myth 4: Cataract surgery should only be done when it ripens
Fact: With modern technology, cataract surgery can be done in the early stage. It is recommended to have surgery before the condition advances.
Myth 5: Cataract surgery is risky and takes time to heal
Fact: Cataract surgery is one of the safest procedures in the field of medicine. It is a painless surgery. A person can resume day-to-day activities, once the eye patch is removed which is done on the next day post-surgery. Nowadays surgeons don’t even put the eye patch.
Cataracts cannot be prevented but it can be treated. It is important to schedule an appointment every year as you age, to keep your eyes healthy, and to detect any problem as soon as possible so that needed intervention can be done timely. At EYE-Q, we have eye specialist doctors and the latest femtosecond lasers to perform cataract surgery.
