Cataract Causes

Written by Tao Yuan
Ophthalmology
Updated on December 02, 2024
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Cataracts can be caused by many reasons, with the following common scenarios: First, due to aging factors, as age increases, the proteins in the lens of the eye gradually degenerate, leading to cloudiness and reduced transparency of the lens, ultimately resulting in cataracts. Second, cataracts can be caused by eye trauma, where a significant impact can damage the structure of the lens. Third, they can be caused by chronic inflammation within the eye, such as uveitis or iridocyclitis, where the inflammation leads to the degeneration of lens proteins. Fourth, long-term use of steroid medications can affect the metabolism of lens proteins, thereby leading to the development of cataracts.

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Written by Hu Shu Fang
Ophthalmology
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Does cataract cause headache?

The main symptoms of cataracts include a decline in vision, with both near and far objects appearing unclear, and blurry vision. There is no significant eye pain or headaches, nor does it cause redness in the eyes. If headaches do occur, it is important to investigate the cause, such as checking if there is an increase in eye pressure or if the headache is caused by glaucoma, and to treat according to the specific cause. However, in the later stages or over-mature stage of cataracts, the lens may dissolve, which can potentially lead to phacolytic glaucoma, but this condition is very rare.

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Written by Li Min
Ophthalmology
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Does cataract spread by contagion?

Firstly, cataracts are the clouding of the lens inside our eyes, known as cataracts. Cataracts are not contagious. Based on the cause, cataracts can be classified into age-related cataracts (previously referred to as senile cataracts), metabolic cataracts, secondary cataracts, traumatic cataracts, and radiation cataracts. The most common type in clinical settings is age-related cataracts, which are commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly individuals over fifty years old. Its clinical presentation is a painless, gradual decline in vision. Currently, the only effective treatment is surgical intervention.

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Written by Hu Shu Fang
Ophthalmology
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What causes cataracts?

There are many factors that cause cataracts, the most common being age-related cataracts. As we age, we are exposed to ultraviolet rays which can cause degeneration of the lens. The older a person is, the more ultraviolet rays they absorb. Some cataracts are also caused by medications, such as long-term use of steroids. Additionally, some cataracts are caused by trauma; if the lens is accidentally punctured during an injury, it can rapidly deteriorate. There are also congenital cataracts caused by intrauterine infections. The causes are various, and in diabetic patients, their cataracts can progress more quickly because high blood sugar can lead to changes in the osmotic pressure of the lens.

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Written by Hu Shu Fang
Ophthalmology
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Can cataracts be treated without surgery?

In the early stages of cataracts, if one's vision is still greater than 0.3 and they feel it does not affect daily life, it is possible to initially observe without immediate intervention. If the cataracts have significantly worsened vision and greatly impacted the quality of life, and the severity of the cataracts is considerable, then it is advisable to undergo cataract surgery at an appropriate time. Currently, cataract surgery is very advanced, and the only treatment option for cataracts is surgical intervention, as medication is not very effective.

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Written by Hu Shu Fang
Ophthalmology
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What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Cataracts are caused by the clouding of the lens, leading to a decline in vision. Early symptoms include blurred vision, sometimes seeing black spots, and some patients report a significant decrease in vision in dim light, with both near and distant vision being unclear. As cataracts progress, the decline in vision becomes more pronounced, severely affecting the quality of life. Some patients with cataracts may also experience double vision, changes in color perception, and a significant decrease in vision, requiring surgical treatment.