Cortical cataract
Different kinds of cataract you need to be aware of
Clouding of the natural lens of the eye is called cataract. One of most common causes of blindness among people in the age group of 40 years and above, there are basically three types of cataract. Usually patients have either any one of these, or a combination of any of the three types of cataract. These various kinds of cataract are:
Cortical cataract
Subcapsular cataract
Nuclear sclerotic cataract
Cortical cataract develops in the lens cortex – that part of the eye lens which surrounds central nucleus. With changes in the water content of the lens fibers, spokes- shaped fissures or clefts emerge emerge from the outside edge of the lens towards its center. Due to these clefts the light which enters the eye tend to scatter away thereby creating glare, blurred vision as well as a perception of depth. Usually diabetic patients are prone to develop this type of cataract.
Subcapsular cataract, on the other hand, develops on the posterior area of the lens. As it emerges on beneath the lens capsule which encloses the lens and holds it in place, this kind of cataract has been named as “subcapsular cataract”. This kind of cataract creates a “halo” effect and can interfere with your reading. This is one subtype of cataract which not only develops rapidly but its symptoms too are noticeable within few months. Apart from diabetic people, those suffering from retinitis pigmentosa, or use steroids develop subcapsular cataract very easily.
But the kind of cataract which is very common is nuclear cataract. It is an age-related development which is caused due to the hardening and yellowing of the lens over time. As it is the nucleus of the lens which is hardens in this condition – the term nuclear sclerotic (hardening) is used to define this kind of cataract.
Usually visual aids like new glasses, strong bifocals, magnification and appropriate lighting can be used in the initial stage as the symptoms of cataract develop. But when the cataracts have developed to such an extent that it affects your daily work schedule, then surgery is the best option. Unlike other surgeries, cataract surgery is a very simple and painless procedure. Also its success rate has been very high. Nine out of ten patients regain a good vision after the surgery.
The surgery involves removal of the clouded lens of the patient and replacing it with a clear, plastic intraocular lens (IOL).
For information on cataract and retina treatment in Bangalore, visit www.sankaraeye.com.