A cataract is a common eye condition that occurs in the cortex. This condition can cause trouble with vision and while performing daily life activities. This type of cataract creates a spoke-like formation, it develops in the outer edge of the lens and grows towards the center. The initial symptoms of cortical cataract might feel subtle but if it’s not treated on time, it can start affecting your vision. Detecting early signs of a cortical cataract can help you prevent it on time and keep your vision safe.
A cataract occurs in the lens cortex, creating characteristic spoke-like formations that radiate from the outer edge toward the center. While other types of cataracts may develop within the nucleus or rear of the lens, cortical cataracts specifically impact how light enters the eye, creating specific vision problems.
Cortical cataracts usually require significant daily life changes. Patients can start by modifying their home environment, especially lighting setups. Many find themselves having to depend more on family members or caretakers for tasks they previously performed independently. Support systems have become more critical for patients through local support groups or online communities for individuals with similar experiences.
The implications of quality of life are significant and can affect reading, driving, and social interaction. The majority of patients reported that they feel less confident in public places, especially where there is a variation in lighting conditions. However, there are options available to recover from it; one can go for the non-surgical option if it’s the beginning, and in severe cases, it requires surgery; one can resume daily activity after a week of surgery.
The early signs of a cortical cataract typically begin subtly. Patients often notice increased glare and halos around lights, particularly while driving at night. Vision becomes increasingly blurry or cloudy, especially in certain parts of the visual field. Low-light situations become particularly challenging, and many people experience double vision or ghost images when looking at objects. These initial symptoms often prompt patients to seek professional evaluation.
Understanding the causes of a cortical cataract is essential for prevention and management. The natural ageing process remains the primary factor, as the eye’s lens gradually becomes less flexible and more opaque over time. Diabetes and other systemic medical conditions can significantly accelerate cataract formation. Extended exposure to ultraviolet radiation, particularly in individuals who spend considerable time outdoors without proper eye protection, increases the risk. Regular smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have also been linked to earlier onset and faster progression of cataracts.
Studies determine that there are some risk factors for a cortical cataract. A family history of cataracts indicates a genetic predisposition to the condition. Using a steroid medicine for the long term can increase the risk of cataract development, whether one is using it for respiratory conditions or other health issues. High blood pressure and related cardiovascular problems can also be a reason to develop cataracts. Any prior eye injury or trauma can speed up the development of cortical cataracts in the affected eye.
Professional diagnosis of an advanced cortical cataract requires several check-ups and examinations. Your eye care provider will perform complete visual acuity tests to diagnose how the problem impacts your vision. There is a slit-lamp checking that allows for detailed visualisation of the structure of the lens shape and the formed cataract. Lastly, a retinal test confirms no other illness impacting your vision. Have regular check-up appointments for early identification with the best eye surgeon in Mumbai for improved treatment outcomes.
One can face vision problems due to cortical cataracts which can also affect daily activity. Night driving is especially hazardous due to more glare and poorer contrast sensitivity. Reading and performing detailed tasks might become more difficult as it requires more effort and better lighting conditions. Research says that many patients have experienced more sensitivity to bright light and need to use sunglasses even indoors. All these difficulties may increase gradually, so, the detection of any vision changes is a must regularly.
Understanding the signs and getting cortical cataract treatment early can save you from surgical methods. Prescribed glasses and lifestyle modifications can be helpful to manage initial symptoms. The underlying conditions need to be well-controlled to avoid rapid progression. Treating cortical cataracts naturally can involve dietary changes full of antioxidants and certain eye exercises, but these should be used in addition, not instead of, medical guidance.
When non-surgical treatments fail to deliver sufficient relief, the patient is only left with a surgery option. One can opt for an experienced cataract surgeon in Mumbai. The surgery procedure involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. The cataract eye surgery cost in Mumbai depends on various factors like the quality of the lens and technology utilised, but the expenditure usually results in considerable gains in quality of life.
Cortical cataract prevention plays an important in managing eye health. Wearing UV-protected glasses at all times when outside offers valuable protection against harmful radiation. A healthy diet with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals helps maintain overall eye health. Regular eye examinations allow for early detection and monitoring of any vision change. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can also decrease the risk of cataract formation. And, if one is going through the surgical option, ensure the aftercare tips suggested by doctors are followed strictly to prevent further complications.
Cortical cataract diagnosis is important for maintaining long-term clear vision. Early detection of symptoms and seeking a timely medical intervention can prevent these visual impairments. Whether one goes for non-surgical treatment or safe surgical treatment, appropriate care and lifestyle changes can be beneficial. At Arohi Eye Hospital, we are an eye specialist and well-known since 2010. We have served over 1,50,000+ patients which makes us the most trusted eye hospital in Mumbai.
Moreover, following safe working practices, like the use of UV-protective glasses and regular eye check-ups, aids in avoiding further degradation. Prioritizing the health of one’s eyes promotes a quality of life that allows one to accomplish daily tasks confidently and comfortably.
There are various symptoms but the most common symptoms of a cortical cataract include glare, blurry vision, and difficulty seeing in low light. An early diagnosis is essential for clear vision lifelong.
They usually form due to age-related degeneration. Another reason is medical conditions like diabetes or excessive UV exposure.
Cortical cataracts affect the outer lens of the eyes. On the other hand, nuclear cataracts impact the center, and posterior cataracts develop at the back.
Cortical cataracts are primarily diagnosed by eye examination. This includes slit-lamp tests and assessing opacity. Additionally, a visual acuity examination.
At Arohi Eye Hospital, we have both options, surgical and non-surgical. After thorough consultation and eye examination, we suggest whether the patient should go for a non-surgical option or cortical cataract surgery based on severity.
Yes, family history, steroid use, high blood pressure, and eye trauma increase the risk, these are a few factors that can increase the risk of cortical cataracts.
Yes, it is possible that cortical cataracts can affect both the eyes. However, the progressing rate and severity could be deferred from each other.
Cortical cataracts do not have any stage like other disease. However, the progress can be described as the beginning of cortical cataracts with subtle opacities in the lens cortex. These can increase day by day in numbers and density and eventually could affect the vision.
Dr. Shradha Goel, Chief Surgeon at Arohi Eye Hospital, is a renowned Phaco-LASIK surgeon with over 10,000 surgeries to her credit. She earned her MBBS from Grant Medical College, Mumbai, and a Master’s in Ophthalmology from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. As a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Dr. Goel specialises in LASIK, refractive errors, and cataract treatments.
LASIK surgery transformed vision correction for millions across the world who have refractive errors. The…
Many people find eye evisceration surgery to be a confronting choice when facing the life-changing…
Cataract surgery is the most common eye surgery globally, restoring vision and improving the lifestyle…
Millions of humans around the globe suffer from eye infections every year. It can be…
Have you recently undergone cataract surgery and noticed a change in your vision? You are…
When you are fed up with glasses or contact lenses and want to get rid…