Cataract Awareness Month is an observance held to raise awareness about cataracts, a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The month is dedicated to educating the public about cataracts, their causes, symptoms, prevention, and available treatment options.

What are cataracts?

Cataracts refer to the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, which leads to blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, glare sensitivity, and other visual impairments. The condition often develops gradually with age but can also result from other factors such as genetics, eye injuries, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

• Blurred Vision: The most common symptom of cataracts is blurred vision, which can make objects appear hazy or fuzzy. This can affect both near and distant vision.
• Cloudy or Dim Vision: Individuals with cataracts often experience a sense of cloudiness or a decrease in the clarity of their vision. Colours may appear dull or less vibrant.
• Sensitivity to Glare: Cataracts can cause increased sensitivity to glare, particularly from bright lights or sunlight. Glare may make it challenging to drive at night or in bright conditions.
• Difficulty Seeing at Night: Cataracts can make it harder to see in low-light situations or at night. This can result in decreased visual acuity and difficulties with tasks such as driving or navigating in dimly lit areas.
• Halos Around Lights: Some people with cataracts may notice the presence of halos or rings around lights, particularly in low-light environments or when looking at bright light sources.
• Frequent Prescription Changes: Cataracts can cause changes in an individual’s vision prescription. If you find that you need to update your glasses or contact lens prescription frequently, it could be a sign of cataracts.

Can cataracts be treated or cured?

It is important to note that cataracts are treatable but cannot be cured with medication or lifestyle changes. The most effective treatment for cataracts is surgical removal. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.

Cataract surgery is a safe and common procedure performed by ophthalmologists. It is typically an outpatient surgery and has a high success rate in improving vision and quality of life. After the surgery, most individuals experience significant vision improvement and can resume their regular activities with clearer vision.

By raising awareness about cataracts and promoting early detection and treatment, Cataract Awareness Month aims to improve overall eye health, reduce vision loss, and enhance the quality of life for those affected by this condition. If you are experiencing symptoms of cataracts or have concerns about your vision, it is recommended to consult with an eye care professional, such as an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They can evaluate your eyes, provide a diagnosis, and discuss appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific situation.