Cataracts are cloudy areas that form in the lens of the eye. They are not a growth on the eye but they can result in poor vision because they interfere with the light that enters the eye. Normally, the lens is clear and helps focus light on the retina (the light-sensitive part of the eye). However, as the lens becomes cloudy it causes vision to blur.
Most cataracts are a result of ageing. As a person ages, the protein in their lenses may change and become ‘cloudy’. This is the start of a cataract. Other causes may include:
Occasionally cataracts may be present at birth if the baby’s mother had rubella during pregnancy, or due to genetic defects.
Cataracts usually develop slowly without any pain or noticeable change in vision. Once you have a cataract the most common symptoms include:
An optometrist can examine your eyes to see if there are any changes in the lens of the eye. Their specialised equipment enables them to see changes in the lens that may lead to cataracts several years before any symptoms appear.
Cataracts are more common in people who are older than 65 but they can affect people in their 40s and 50s.
There is no proven method of preventing cataracts. Scientists believe that long-term exposure to ultraviolet light may induce cataracts, so a brimmed hat and protective sunglasses should be worn in sunlight to minimise exposure to ultraviolet light.
Generally, cataracts get worse with time. The clouded areas become larger and denser, making the vision blurrier. The time taken for this to happen varies from a few months to many years.
Cataracts often affect both eyes but usually develop at different rates in each eye.
If untreated, cataracts can cause blindness. However, blindness can be prevented if the cataracts are detected early and, if necessary, removed surgically. Your optometrist will refer you to an eye specialist if they consider that you need medical treatment for your cataracts.
An ophthalmologist can remove cataracts. They are medical doctors who specialise in eye surgery. Your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist if necessary.
Cataract surgery is now a relatively minor procedure. Often it is performed under a local anaesthetic. Depending on the patient, the surgery may be performed on an outpatient basis. This means that the patient attends a hospital or clinic for the surgery and is able to go home the same day. .
This varies with each person. Usually cataract surgery is performed when the quality of vision interferes with daily life. Your optometrist will assist you in making this decision.
In most cases patients will see very well after they have had their cataract removed. That’s because most patients have an intra-ocular lens (IOL) inserted at the time of surgery. This is a plastic lens that replaces your own cloudy lens. After the operation, it will take a little time for the eye to heal and adjust to the new lens. Some people may need to wear spectacles or contact lenses afterwards.
There are medical and hospital/day surgery charges that apply to cataract surgery. The fees charged by specialists and operating theatres vary. Check with your specialist to find out what these charges are, and find out what benefits are payable by Medicare and HCF. Remember: HCF does not charge an excess for same-day surgery in a public or private hospital if you have Hospital Cover.
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