The Different Types of Cataracts and Their Impact on Vision

Cataracts not only cloud our vision but also significantly impact the lives of those affected by it. By recognising the early signs and understanding the myriad effects of different types of cataracts, people can seek timely intervention, which is crucial in preserving good eyesight and going about our lives with ease.

Research suggests that by age 80, more than half of all individuals either have a cataract or have undergone cataract surgery. Thus, understanding this condition is essential for those approaching older age and their families and caregivers as well.  

Meet our Medical Director: Dr Lim Wei Kheong Jimmy

MBBS, MMed (Ophth), MRCSEd (Ophth), FRCSEd (Ophth), FAMS

Cataracts Overview

Cataracts are among the leading causes of visual impairment globally, affecting tens of millions annually. This eye condition occurs when the lens of the eye, which is normally clear, becomes clouded, thus impeding vision. 

A cataract forms when proteins in the eye’s lens begin to clump together, clouding a small area and obstructing the passage of light, leading to visual impairment. This condition usually develops gradually and without pain, making its early detection challenging. To find out the common effects of cataracts, watch our video and check against your symptoms.

Diagnosing Cataracts

Early detection is facilitated through comprehensive eye examinations, which can prevent the progression of cataracts. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Visual Acuity Test: This test measures how well you can read a series of letters.
• Slit-lamp Examination: This microscope examines the eye under intense light, allowing doctors to see the structures at the front of the eye in fine detail.
• Retinal Exam: After dilating the pupils, the doctor can examine the back of the eye.

The World Health Organization reports that effective screening and appropriate surgical interventions are crucial in preventing significant vision loss due to cataracts.

Types of Cataract

Cataracts can vary significantly in terms of their location and origin within the lens. Each type impacts vision in unique ways.

• Nuclear Cataracts: These typically form in the centre of the lens and may initially cause what is known as ‘second sight’, where near vision improves before worsening as the cataract progresses.
• Cortical Cataracts: Beginning in the periphery of the lens and moving to the centre, these cataracts create problems with light diffraction, leading to issues with glare and contrast.
• Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts: These occur at the back of the lens and can develop relatively quickly, significantly affecting reading vision and sensitivity to light.

Additionally, congenital cataracts are those that occur at birth or develop during childhood, these can sometimes be small enough not to affect vision, but if they do, prompt removal is essential to prevent lifelong visual impairment.

Treatment Options For Cataracts

The treatment approach for cataracts depends heavily on the cataract’s type and severity. For early-stage cataracts, non-surgical interventions can be effective. These include updating prescription eyeglasses to enhance visual clarity or improving environmental lighting conditions to facilitate better vision. Such adjustments are often sufficient to manage minor visual impairments associated with early cataracts.

However, as cataracts advance and further obstruct vision, surgical procedures become necessary. The most common surgical method is phacoemulsification, which uses ultrasonic vibrations to break up and remove the cloudy lens. For cases where the cataract is too dense or advanced for phacoemulsification, extracapsular surgery may be employed. This technique involves a larger incision to remove the cloudy lens in one piece.

Following either surgical procedure, intraocular lenses (IOLs) are implanted to replace the natural lens, restoring clearer vision. This surgical intervention is renowned for its high success rate and can dramatically improve the quality of life for patients suffering from advanced cataracts.

Life After Cataract Surgery

Life after cataract surgery is generally marked by significant enhancements in vision for the majority of patients. The recovery process, while involving some mild discomfort, is usually straightforward with a few key care steps to ensure optimal healing. Immediately following the surgery, patients are prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. They are also advised to wear protective eyewear to shield the eye from external irritants and light, which helps the healing process.

Regular follow-up visits are crucial after the surgery. These appointments allow the doctor to monitor the eye’s healing process and ensure that the vision is being restored correctly. These checkups are also a good opportunity for patients to discuss any concerns or symptoms they experience during recovery.

One of the notable benefits of cataract surgery is the potential to see clearly without the need for prescription eyeglasses. Many patients find that their dependence on corrective lenses is significantly reduced, especially if they opt for multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) designed to correct vision at multiple distances. 

Numerous studies corroborate the effectiveness of cataract surgical procedures, with approximately 95% of surgeries resulting in improved vision, making cataract surgery one of the most successful medical interventions available. This success rate highlights not only the efficacy of the surgery itself but also the transformative impact it can have on a patient’s quality of life, allowing them to enjoy everyday activities with renewed clarity.

Cataract Care in Singapore

In conclusion, effectively managing cataracts is essential for maintaining vision and quality of life. Early detection, understanding the various types, and exploring the appropriate treatment options are crucial for successful outcomes. We highlight the importance of timely medical intervention and continuous public education to manage this widespread condition.

At JL Eye Specialists in Singapore, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for all our patients, including those visiting from abroad. From managing medical costs to navigating hospital procedures, our team is here to assist every step of the way. Our Medical Director, Dr. Jimmy Lim has over 20 years of specialised experience in cataract and corneal surgeries and research.

Schedule a consultation or call us at 6258-8966 for more information.