What to do in the event of an early cataract

A cataract is a clouding of the lens that can lead to a significant drop in visual acuity and, in some cases, blindness.

It is a common pathology, especially linked to aging, but it can also occur congenitally or be associated with diseases such as glaucoma. 

Find out what to do if you have symptoms of an early cataract.

What are the symptoms of early cataract?

Cataracts, a clouding of the lens, develop gradually.

 

Initial symptoms may include blurred vision, glare, difficulty seeing at night, and sensitivity to light.

 

As cataracts progress, they can significantly impair vision, altering the perception of colors and contrasts.

 

Vision loss, although gradual, is the most characteristic symptom.

 

Although cataracts do not cause immediate blindness, it is important to treat them early to prevent further vision loss.

Headaches are not usually associated with early cataracts.

 

If you suspect an early cataract, it is essential to follow certain steps to evaluate and treat this condition.

 

We invite you to read our selection of Femme Actuelle articles where Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger speaks on this subject to learn more!

 

How to prevent an early cataract?

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent cataracts from getting worse.

 

Protecting your eyes from UV rays by wearing appropriate glasses, quitting smoking, and eating a diet rich in antioxidants can help preserve your vision.

 

We also advise to limit alcohol and maintain a healthy weight, as diseases such as diabetes can increase the risk of cataracts.

 

Consult an ophthalmologist regularly for early detection and appropriate follow-up.


Finally, practicing stress-reducing activities and ensuring good quality sleep contributes to better general health, including eye health.

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Although cataracts are more common after age 60, they can occur as early as age 40 or 50 in some cases, especially in the presence of risk factors.

 

See an ophthalmologist regularly for early detection and appropriate follow-up.

 

Why consult an ophthalmologist with an early cataract?

The first step in the event of symptoms suggesting a cataract is to consult an ophthalmologist.

The detection of an early cataract is based on a complete ophthalmological examination performed by an eye health professional.

This ophthalmology specialist will perform a complete examination of your vision, including a refraction, to determine the impact on your visual acuity, both near and far.

What are the ophthalmological examinations to detect an early cataract?

To diagnose an early cataract in its early stages, it is essential to consult an ophthalmologist.

This eye specialist will perform a series of precise ophthalmological examinations.

First, a classic eye exam will be performed to assess your visual acuity. The ophthalmologist will also be able to measure your eye pressure and perform a fundus exam to observe the condition of your retina.

The ophthalmologist can use the slit microscope to examine the condition of the cataract and check its progression. This exam allows one to observe the opacity of the lens in detail and assess its impact on vision.

 

Additional assessment may be necessary, such as a visual field to assess your peripheral field of vision.

Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist if you experience the first  symptoms of an early cataract. Regular ophthalmological monitoring is also recommended, especially from a certain age, to detect any abnormalities at an early stage and thus best preserve your vision.

It is important to see an ophthalmologist for each eye, as cataracts can progress differently in both eyes.

Treatments for early cataracts

Early detection of cataracts through regular eye assessment  is essential. If cataracts are confirmed, several treatment options are available.

In the beginning of cataracts, if the symptoms do not compromise your quality of life too much, simple observation can be considered.

Your eye specialist will monitor you regularly to assess the progress of the cataract.

Optical correction using corrective glasses may also be suggested to temporarily improve your vision.

However, when the cataract progresses and vision becomes insufficient (blurred vision, disturbances in color perception, etc.), surgery becomes the only effective treatment.

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This procedure involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial implant.

There is no medical treatment for cataracts.

No medication or eye drops can stop their progression. However, there is a surgical treatment, presented below in our article.

Cataract treatment depends on the progress of the disease and the impact on your quality of life.

Your ophthalmologist will advise you and guide you towards the treatment best suited to your situation.

Find out more by consulting the articles in Femme Actuelle where Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger shares her expertise!

 

Learn more about cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis and involves removing the cloudy lens through a small incision.

Cataract surgery is performed under local anesthesia. The lens is often replaced with an intraocular implant, an artificial lens that can restore or improve vision.

The choice of implant may depend on the eventual presence of other conditions, such as astigmatism, myopia, or hyperopia.

To learn more, read the articles in Femme Actuelle with the interventions of Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger.

Post-operative follow-up

After surgery, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops will be prescribed to prevent complications.


A period of visual recovery is necessary, and it is common to see a gradual improvement in vision. Patients may also experience mild discomfort or temporary glare.

Potential complications

It is important to discuss the potential risks associated with surgery, such as retinal detachment or posterior capsule opacification, which may require additional surgery.

 

Regular assessments will be necessary to monitor the progression of visual blindness, especially in patients with macular degeneration or retinopathy.

In conclusion

In the event of the onset of cataracts, it is essential to consult an ophthalmologist as soon as possible and follow their recommendations.

With appropriate management, it is possible to maintain a good quality of life and significantly improve visual acuity.

 

Cataract surgery, performed by a specialist, involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial implant, thereby restoring clear and lasting vision.

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