Alton Street Surgery Patient Information Leaflet

Cataracts

What is a cataract?
A cataract describes the condition of the eye lens when it becomes cloudy or opaque. This interferes with the quality of vision.

What causes a cataract?
The most common explanation is the normal ageing process of the eye. There may be other factors such as:

· Family history

· Excessive long-term exposure to sunlight.

· Diabetes.

· Eye injury.

· Developmental: some babies are born with cataracts.

How do I know if I have a cataract?
You may experience some or all of the following:

· A gradual reduction in vision.

· Seeing haloes around lights or seeing double with one eye.

· A susceptibility to bright lights and glare.

· Fading of colours.

How is a cataract treated?

You will have a full examination of your eyes to find out if the reduction in your vision is due to a cataract or some other cause. Once established that you have a cataract, the only treatment currently is for the simple removal of the lens and replacement by a plastic one.

What happens in cataract surgery?

The removal can be carried out under local anaesthetic. A tiny hole is made in the eye and the lens is broken up using ultrasound and removed through the hole. An artificial lens is then inserted as a replacement.

What happens after surgery?
In most cases, healing takes about 6 weeks. It's normal to feel itching and mild discomfort for a while after your replacement. You may feel extra sensitive to light and touch. Eye drops may be used to help healing.

Other precautions after surgery
It's wise to seek advice from the eye specialist about how soon after surgery you can resume driving. Seek advice from hospital staff or your optician about the need for spectacles. Rest your body to promote effective healing after surgery.

This patient information leaflet has been adapted from an original published by Clinnix Pro, Synigence PLC