Cataract

Cataract is a condition that occurs when the natural lens of the eye, which provides vision and is located behind the pupil, loses its transparency and becomes cloudy. In other words, it leads to impaired vision that can be described as looking through a foggy window.

Cataract is an eye disorder which is seen in elderly people; however, it can also occur:

• In newborns,
• In diabetes patients,
• As a result of physical injuries to the eye,
• As a result of long-term use of medicines with cortisone.

Symptoms of cataract; 

• Gradual impairment of vision
• Sensitivity to light (glare)
• Double vision
• Difficulty in reading
• Impaired night vision
• Faded or yellowed colors
• Frequently changing number of diopters

Cataract is not a disease that can be treated with medication or glasses. There is not an effective method which can stop the progression of cataract and a formed cataract can only be treated with surgery. Thanks to modern techniques, today cataract operations are performed with a pain-free procedure without using needles or anesthesia, and patients can return home on the same day. There are some important points that need to be considered in relation to cataract surgeries. The experience of the doctor and the quality of the lens implanted into the eye directly affect the success of the surgery. After a surgery performed using poor quality lenses, problems may develop in the eye. This may also result in the risk of developing cataract for the second time after a short period. For patients, this means risk of another surgery and additional costs.

Congenital Cataract

Congenital cataract is a unilateral or bilateral clouding (opacification) of the lens that is present at birth. Congenital cataracts may develop due to infections the mother had or the medications she used during pregnancy or with no apparent cause. One pupil being a different color from the other (white) or crossed eyes (strabismus) can be a sign of cataract. Once such symptoms are observed in infants, an ophthalmologist should be consulted without delay. If a congenital cataract hinders vision and particularly if it is unilateral, surgery should be performed as soon as a diagnosis is made. A specialized ophthalmologist decides on the timing of surgery after a detailed examination. The most important problem in an eye with congenital cataract is lazy eye (amblyopia). In order to overcome amblyopia, surgery should be performed as soon as possible in accordance with the ophthalmologist’s advice.