Cataract - Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

It can be defined as a cloudy or opaque area in the lens located directly behind the iris inside the eye. When it develops, the right rays become scattered as they pass through the cloudy lens and the retinal image becomes blurred and distorted.

It can be present at birth or can develop later in life. The exact cause of bilateral cataracts is unknown and many of them are hereditary. It is also associated with a number of genetic disorders. Unilateral cataract is usually not associated with a particular disease. Trauma is another cause of unilateral cataract. Possible causes of cataracts include:

• Trauma
• Diabetes
• Poisoning
• Steroid use
• Other childhood diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis

Sometimes cataract may be so small that child perceives no blurriness at all. Kids with cataracts also have a higher risk of developing high pressure in the eye called as, glaucoma.

Symptoms

• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Decreased vision
• Double vision
• Light appear too bright
• Colour seem faded

Diagnosis

• Visual acuity test
• Pupil dilation

Treatments

 Treatment is completely based on child’s age, overall health, type of cataract, and medical history. In some cases, vision loss caused by the cataract may be aided by eyeglasses or contact lenses.