Katarakt

What is a cataract?

The answers to the questions of what is a cataract, an eye disease that is frequently encountered both in the world and in Turkey, and how can we understand cataracts are in this article. When asked what is a cataract, it can be briefly described as a frosted glass drawn in front of our eyes. In this respect, when we give the example of camera lenses, cataract can also be defined as an image similar to the image given by a broken lens remaining fixed in the human eye. Ophthalmology and Eye Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Alimgil, who gave an opinion to an agency in 2019, said that it is estimated that 40 million people will go blind due to cataracts in 2020.

What are the causes of cataracts?

Although there are more than one cause of cataracts, the most common symptom detected by experts is old age. While cataract treatment is considered normal for people aged 50 and over on average, other causes are sought in people under the age of 50. Many factors such as immunity, experienced events (e.g. a blow to the eye), genetic reasons and eye diseases can cause cataracts.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Although cataract symptoms are generally observed as aging, they can be listed as factors such as light, vision impairment, fading in color perception, decreased clarity in the eyes, less vision at night or less sensitivity to light, etc. In this context, if you experience one or more of these symptoms, you can immediately consult a specialist and start the treatment process before your disease progresses.

How does a cataract form?

The question of how does a cataract form is frequently searched by citizens. There are 3 types: Congenital Cataract, Juvenile Cataract and Senile Cataract. Congenital cataract is related to the process the baby goes through in the womb, presenile cataract is related to children and young people, and senile cataract is the type of cataract that occurs during the aging process of the person.

How is cataract treated?

When cataract is diagnosed after the treatment, it is a disease that can be treated directly with surgery. Cataract treatment is performed within the framework of two techniques: Cataract extraction (IKKE), which is an old method, and Extracapsule Cataract Extraction. In the treatment performed with Extracapsule Cataract Extraction, it is a cataract method performed within the scope of removing the anterior capsule of the lens, cleaning the other parts with delivery and suction methods, and inserting the intraocular lens into the lens membranes. The Phacoemulsification (PHACO) method, commonly known as ‘sutureless cataract surgery’, includes the processes of melting the lens nucleus and removing the cataract. If you suspect cataract symptoms, you can immediately consult with experts and start your treatment.