CATARACTSThe lens of the human eye is comparable to the lens of a camera or magnifying glass, and for obvious reasons it needs to be transparent and free of flaws. The development of what are called cataracts, or opacities and clouding of the eye's lens, blocks the passage of light through the eye. Various forms of cataract make up one of the leading causes of blindness in this country today. Although some cataracts are congenital (present at birth), the likelihood of developing them increases with age. Chemical changes in the lens and diabetes have also been associated with development of cataracts, and chemical burns and heredity may cause them. Like the majority of eye conditions, they are not contagious. Cataracts are not painful. In fact the only symptom as far as the patient is concerned is from very slight to virtually total interference with vision. Dimmed, blurred, or double vision or a need for frequent changes of glasses may indicate the presence of cataracts. Reading in dim light and glare may be a problem for persons with cataracts. Driving at night may become very difficult. Not all cataracts require surgery, some being small enough that they do not seriously affect vision. For those large enough to cause visual problems, medication usually does not help; and the only effective treatment is surgery to remove the affected lens, implantation of an intraocular lens, and the subsequent wearing of conventional eyeglasses or contact lenses. Much progress has been made recently in the development of improved forms of cataract surgery. The likelihood of regaining useful sight is generally very good. Convalescence from the surgery is faster and safer than ever before. In fact, many cataract surgeries can be done on an outpatient basis now. |