Cataract and Your Eyes
A cataract is a cloudiness or opacity of the eye’s natural clear lens. It obstructs the passage of light to the retina (parda) of the eye and impairs vision. When the lens develops cloudiness to the point that it impairs vision, it is called cataract. It is like looking through a frosted glass.
How is cataract diagnosed?
The ophthalmologist examines the rest of the eye so as to predict the visual results of the surgery. The pressure of eye is recorded so as to rule out glaucoma. If possible, the retina is also examined, otherwise ultrasound scanning is performed.
What are the symptoms?
Progressive and painless blurring of vision is the commonest symptom. The blurring of vision may be more marked in bright light. Brightness and contrast of the image decreases in early cataract. Some individuals experience glare in night driving. Colors may become less district. Later on the vision deteriorates and interferes in day to day activities. Seeing two or more moons poyopial at night also suggests cataract. Pain, itching, redness or watering are not symptoms of cataract. Cataract usually develops in both the eyes, but may progress at different rates.
Is there a cure?
Although research is currently underway, no preventive measures are known for cataract that develops with age. No diet, drugs or medicine have been proven to delay or cure the cataract. The only treatment is surgical. Cataract surgery is a safe surgical procedure, with the appropriate lens implant, has restored sight for millions.
Phacoemulsificatlon or Phaco
| Phacomulsification Conventional Surgery |
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| 1.2 mm to 1.8 mm long Incision 7 mm to 9 mm long Incision |
It is a no stitch small incision cataract surgery. IOL is implanted and the surgery is completed without any stitch. The Incision is only 1.8mm – 2.2mm long.
A computer controlled ‘Phaco’ machine with tiny ultrasonic probe is used to remove cataract. Phaco uses ultrasound energy to liquify lens and suck it out with a titanium probe, vibrating forty thousand times a second. The lens is implanted through the smallest possible opening in the eye. The minute (2.2mm or smaller) incision is self sealed and needs no suture or stitch to close it. The patient is back to normal activities within a few days, including attending office or even doing heavy manual work. Phacoemulsificatlon was started for the first time in Jalandhar at THIND EYE HOSPITAL. At present this technique is used for all cases undergoing Cataract surgery at our hospital. To retain the maximum benefit of the miniature 2.2mm or smallest incision, a foldable IOL is used. The foldable IOL made of transparent silicone or acrylic polymer to be inserted inside the eye in a fine tube and it unfolds to It’s full size once inside the eye.
FAQs
What should I do right after cataract surgery?
Plan to spend the day resting quietly when you return home after surgery. For a day or two, avoid exerting yourself, and do not carry anything heavy. Your vision will be blurry at first, so be extra careful to avoid falling or bumping. If you feel like it, you can read, watch TV, and do simple chores. You can resume your normal diet and take you usual medications unless advised otherwise.
What things can I safely do the next Day?
You can do most of the things you feel like doing, including walking, driving, exercise and stretching. If you work at a desk in an office, you can return to work.
How well can I see the next day?
Expect your vision to be blurry at first. Also your vision may change from time to time during the day. Your vision will improve over few days as your eyes adjust to working together. Your rate of healing may be faster or slower than that of others.
How can I protect my eye?
Your old glasses will not help you see better in the operated eye, but they will protect your eye from injury. After surgery please change the lens to plain glasses for operated eye.
Will I need to use medications?
You will be prescribed eye drops to help healing and prevent
infection or inflammation. Follow our instructions carefully. Take help of a family member or friend to put the medicine in your eye. If you have pain that is not relieved by the medicine prescribed, call us.
Will I need to see the doctor after surgery?
We will call you for check up the day after surgery. This checkup will take about half an hour. If you have questions or concerns write them down before your next visit.
When should I call my doctor?
You may call us if:
• You have severe pain, redness & dimness in vision.
• Your vision becomes suddenly worse.
• You see flashes of light in your field of vision.
• You see what appears to be a curtain coming down across your field of vision.
Will I need glasses after Cataract Surgery ?
» Yes, with monofocal IOL’s you will need glasses for distance & near both
» With Toric IOL’s you will need glasses for reading only.
» With multifocal or accommodative IOL’s you will be independent of glasses.»
