Nuclear cataract is an eye disease characterized by clouding of the lens in the middle (nucleus). Nuclear cataracts or nuclear cataracts are the most common types of cataracts, especially in the elderly.
Nuclear cataracts generally develop slowly. Over time, the lens will harden and turn yellow or brown, which can interfere with vision. Nuclear cataracts or nuclear cataracts that are not treated can lead to serious complications, such as blindness.
Causes of Nuclear Cataract
The aging process is a major risk factor for nuclear cataracts. This is because as we age, the proteins in the lens can clump together and block the entry of light, thus interfering with the sufferer's vision.
Apart from age, there are also several other factors that can increase a person's risk of developing nuclear cataracts, including:
- Too much exposure to the sun
- Suffering from diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure
- Have you ever had eye surgery?
- Have you ever had an eye injury?
- Taking corticosteroids in the long term
- Have a family with cataracts
- Smoking and drinking too much alcohol
Nuclear Cataract Symptoms
Most people with nuclear cataracts are not aware of any visual disturbances in the early stages of cataracts. This is because cataracts affect only a small part of the eye's lens. However, over time, cataracts will expand and cause a number of symptoms that include:
- Blurred or dim vision
- Double vision in the eye affected by cataracts
- Difficulty seeing objects at night
- Seeing halos around the light source
- It's easier to be blinded if you see strong light in a dark place, for example from vehicle headlights
- Change glasses often
- Need a brighter light when reading or doing other activities
- Colors look more faded or yellowed
How to Treat Nuclear Cataracts
How to treat nuclear cataracts or nuclear cataracts can be done in 2 steps, namely through lifestyle changes or surgery. For more details, see the explanation below:
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes are usually made to help patients manage their nuclear cataract symptoms. There are several ways to do this, namely:
- Replace prescription eyeglasses with stronger lenses.
- Use sunglasses with an anti-glare coating.
- Use a magnifying glass to help with reading.
- Avoid driving vehicles at night.
Nuclear cataract surgery
Surgery is the only effective nuclear cataract treatment. Cataract surgery is usually considered when nuclear cataracts have affected quality of life or interfere with daily activities, such as reading or driving.
In cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. Artificial lenses, also known as intraocular lenses, are made of plastic or silicone. However, if the intraocular lens cannot be inserted, the patient must wear glasses or contact lenses for clear vision after surgery.
Cataract surgery is generally safe and has a high success rate. After surgery, you may feel uncomfortable for a few days. But after 1-2 weeks, you can return to activities with much better eyesight.
The early symptoms of nuclear cataracts or nuclear cataracts are often not noticed. In addition, the development of the disease also occurs slowly. Both of these are factors that cause nuclear cataracts to be treated only when the symptoms are severe.
Therefore, it's a good idea to have your eye health checked by a doctor regularly, about once every 1-2 years, especially if you are over 65 years old. You may need regular eye exams from the age of 40 if you have risk factors for cataracts.
