Kataraktissa

Kataraktissa, also known as cataract, is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. It is a common cause of vision loss worldwide, particularly in older adults. The lens is a transparent structure within the eye that helps focus light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly.

Cataracts typically develop slowly and cause no pain. Early symptoms may include blurred or dimmed vision, difficulty seeing at night, sensitivity to light and glare, needing brighter light for reading, and frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription. These symptoms often go unnoticed until the cataract significantly affects vision.

Cataracts are most commonly caused by aging. Other factors include diabetes, smoking, prolonged use of corticosteroids, and previous eye surgery. There is no proven way to prevent cataracts, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help slow their progression.

Treatment for cataracts usually involves surgery, which is one of the most common and successful procedures performed. During surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This procedure can significantly improve vision and may even correct presbyopia, a common age-related condition where the eye loses its ability to focus on close objects.

Preventive measures include protecting the eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation through the use of sunglasses, wearing protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Regular eye examinations can also help detect cataracts early, allowing for timely intervention.