Cataract
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - H25-H28
What is cataract?
One of the leading causes of blindness in the world, cataract is marked by the progressive loss of transparency of the lens, a kind of natural lens of the eye.
Symptoms
The main symptom of cataract is blurred vision, which makes daily tasks difficult or even impossible. In advanced stages, the person reaches the point of seeing only shadows and lights.
Causes
Aging is the main cause of cataract. Eye infections, diabetes, smoking, and excessive exposure to sunlight without protection are among the risk factors.
Diagnosis
To diagnose cataract, the doctor may use an instrument called an ophthalmoscope, which checks for opacity in the lens.
Prevention method
Protecting the eyes from sunlight, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding the use of eye drops without medical prescription are ways to reduce the risk of cataract.
Treatment
Cataract treatment involves surgeries, which nowadays often use laser to help remove the affected part of the lens and replace it with an artificial lens. Glasses and contact lenses may be prescribed in certain cases.
Duration
Cataract persists and worsens over time. But it is cured with surgery.
Is it contagious?
Cataract is not contagious.
Can it be contracted more than once?
Cataract does not return after surgery.