Cataracts and cataract surgery: A Q&A with Nuffield Health’s ophthalmic surgeon Humma Shahid

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By Humma Shahid, ophthalmic surgeon with specialist interest in complex cataract surgery, Nuffield Health

What is a cataract?

Just like a camera, our eyes contain a lens, which helps to focus and enable clear vision. As the lens ages, the protein within it degenerates and causes it to become cloudy - we call this a cataractous lens (or “cataract”). Cataract is the commonest cause of reversible blindness in the world.

What causes cataract?

Some children are born with congenital cataracts. However in most people, cataracts are age-related. Cataract can develop earlier if there has been an injury or previous surgery to the eye, if people are diabetic or taking certain medication like steroid.

How do I know if I have cataract?

The symptoms of cataract can develop slowly so you may not be aware of them until they are advanced. Common symptoms are a gradual blurring of distance vision which can affect driving, watching television or playing golf. Some people find it more difficult to read when there is less light. Other symptoms can be significant glare at night from car headlamps, the need for multiple changes in spectacle prescription over a short period of time or seeing double images.

How is cataract diagnosed?

Your optician can alert you to the presence of cataract when you attend for your regular appointment. In many cases most people are not aware of symptoms when cataract is present in the early stages. A formal diagnosis can also be made by an ophthalmologist who will also check there is no other condition that is affecting your vision and advise regarding the timing of cataract surgery.

What is the treatment for cataract?

Cataracts can be successfully treated by cataract surgery which involves removing the natural cloudy lens in the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. This lens does not need to be replaced in your lifetime. Most cataract operations are carried out as day case surgery and usually under local anaesthetic. There are different types of lens implant available including specialist toric lenses (which correct for astigmatism) or multifocal lenses (which can mean you do not need spectacles for most tasks). The best lens choice for you can be made by discussion with your eye surgeon.

How can I prevent cataracts from forming?

There is no way of preventing cataracts but reducing ultraviolet light exposure is advised. A healthy diet and avoidance of smoking will improve the general health of the eye. Wearing eye protection can avoid injury to the eyes and thus reduce the chance of cataract formation.

When should I have cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery should be done when your vision is reduced and affecting your quality of life, work or daily activities. There is no need to wait until cataracts are “ready” as advanced cataract surgery techniques mean that cataract surgery can be performed safely even at the earliest onset of cataract.