As people grow older, they start developing various age-related eye conditions. This is quite normal. The most common eye condition that old people develop is a cataract. If you are from the Hindi belt, you might have heard of ‘motiyabind kya hai.’ Well, they are the same thing; cataracts’ Hindi is motiyabind.
Not just in Bihar, people are affected by this eye condition worldwide. Thankfully, it is curable, and the vision loss is reversible. But you have to seek timely cataract treatment to avoid complications. This is only possible when you understand what is cataract and when to get help from an expert.
What Is Cataract in the Eye?
Eyes have a transparent lens behind the pupil. It focuses the light onto the retina so you can see clearly. A cataract is a condition in which the lens behind the pupil becomes cloudy. As a result, light cannot pass through the lens and reach the retina anymore. Thus, the person goes blind over time as the cataract in the eye continues to develop.
Since cataracts develop slowly, many people do not notice the early signs. Delay in treatment can increase the chances of complications.
Causes of Cataract
The most common cause of cataract is ageing. It is normal for the eye lens to go through some changes as you grow older. These changes have an impact on the lens proteins as well. They no longer stay evenly arranged. Instead, they start sticking together in the lens and make it cloudy.
While it is the most common reason behind cataract, it is not the only one. There are many other factors that can cause cataracts as well.
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight can increase the chances of developing cataracts.
- Diabetes can cause various eye problems, including cataracts.
- Eye injury or trauma can sometimes cause cataracts.
- Long-term use of certain medicines can cause cataracts. This is especially true in the case of steroids.
- Smoking damages your eyes in various ways. The risks of developing cataracts can increase if you smoke.
- What you eat matters. Poor nutrition can cause cataracts in the eye.
Many people in Bihar and many other states are not well-aware of the causes of cataract. This is why they often end up doing things that increase the chances of developing cataracts. If you feel any issues with your eyes, it is best to get an eye checkup. And people above 40 years should get regular checkups.
Common Symptoms of Cataract
Knowing the symptoms of cataracts is very important. Otherwise, you may not realise that you have a cataract until your vision is affected. Since a cataract develops slowly, a lot of people do not even take it seriously in the initial stages. However, delaying treatment worsens the cataract symptoms gradually. Knowing them can help you seek treatment early.
- Blurred or cloudy vision is a tell-tale sign of cataracts.
- Cataract affects night vision first. Even if you are able to see clearly during the day, you might experience difficulty seeing at night.
- You slowly start seeing a glare around bright lights.
- If you notice that colours are appearing faded or yellowish, consult a doctor.
- Frequent change in spectacle power
- You suddenly start seeing distinct rings or circles around light sources.
While living with these issues may seem doable in the initial stage, they become worse over time. If left untreated, performing even simple activities becomes very difficult after the cataract matures.
Types of Cataract
All cataracts may seem the same to you, but there are actually different types. These types are created based on where the cataract forms.
- Nuclear cataract: When the cataract forms in the centre of the lens, it is called a nuclear cataract. This type of cataract is commonly related to ageing.
- Cortical cataract: Sometimes cataracts form at the edge of the lens. This is called a cortical cataract. However, it still affects your vision as a cortical cataract slowly spreads inward.
- Posterior subcapsular cataract: This type of cataract forms at the back of the lens. Compared to the other cataract types, these progress much faster. Quick treatment is essential.
Is Cataract Preventable?
Cataract cannot always be prevented, especially age-related cataract. However, certain lifestyle choices can slow its progression:
- Wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays
- Managing diabetes properly
- Avoiding smoking
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Getting regular eye examinations
These steps are particularly important in rural and semi-urban areas of Bihar, where people often ignore early vision problems.
How Is Cataract Diagnosed?
Cataract is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. An eye specialist checks visual acuity and examines the lens using specialised instruments. Early detection allows better planning for treatment and avoids complications caused by delayed care.
Many people assume cataract must become “fully mature” before treatment, which is a common myth. Modern medical practice encourages early intervention when vision begins to affect daily life.
Treatment Options for Cataract
There is currently no medicine, eye drop, or exercise that can cure cataract. Surgery is the only effective treatment. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens.
Cataract surgery is a safe and commonly performed procedure with high success rates. With advancements in surgical techniques, recovery is usually quick, and most patients experience significant improvement in vision.
Cataract Myths That Need Clarity
When a disease or condition is as common as cataracts, it is normal for people to talk about it. While it makes people aware, there is also the risk of spreading misinformation when uninformed people discuss the subject. This is especially true in rural areas, where many people still do not rely on modern science for treatment. It is crucial that you do not fall for such myths. This can delay and hamper your cataract treatment.
- Never listen to a person if he or she tells you that cataracts can be cured with eye drops or medicines. They may help to manage symptoms temporarily. But cataract surgery is the only solution.
- Many delay cataract surgeries so that it matures first. There is no evidence backing the idea that surgeries should only be performed when the cataract is fully mature. Contrary to that, there is actually a higher risk of complications if you wait till the cataract matures.
- ‘Cataract surgery is risky.’ You may have heard this from time to time. But it is not true. It is a simple procedure that heals very quickly.
Believing in myths can prevent people from actively seeking cataract treatment. If you have a cataract, consult your doctor and get it removed with cataract surgery.
Wrapping up
Cataract, or motiyabind, is a common and treatable eye condition. Problems arise when people are not informed about the condition, and they end up delaying their treatment. The only solution to this is awareness. When people are informed about cataracts, they can easily recognise the symptoms. Additionally, they will never fall for myths. Awareness motivates people to seek cataract treatment timely. Moreover, adults should visit a clinic for regular eye checkups. This will help to diagnose the issue at an early stage.
