Cataracts. This prevalent eye condition is the leading cause of blindness worldwide and is also known to be one of the top global causes of visual impairment. Today, cataracts affect more than 95 million people globally, and remains the top cause of blindness in developing nations. Show
Individuals with visually significant cataracts tend to experience symptoms including blurred vision, loss of contrast and colour, halos and glare. These symptoms can heavily impact patients’ day-to-day lives, and this is made even more apparent via studies that have linked increased mortality in older persons with cataracts. Thankfully, vision loss from cataracts can be effectively restored with modern surgical options today. Cataract surgery is considered to be one of the most cost-effective interventions available in modern health care and is known to consistently improve patients’ quality of life. Many patients get used to the visual impairment associated with cataracts, hence may not notice any functional decline. Educating the Singaporean public regarding the prevalence, risk factors and treatment options for cataracts will increase the awareness of eye health. Ready? Here we go: An introduction to cataractsCataract is the leading cause of blindness affecting millions of people globally, with individuals aged 401 and above at an increased risk of developing this condition. Here in Singapore, studies have shown that about 95% of the population above 70 years of age, and 80% of those aged 60 and above, have cataracts. For Singaporeans aged 45 and above, 30% had cataracts. It wouldn’t be surprising to have a parent or older relative who has cataracts. What is surprising, however, is that the number of cataract cases may actually be even higher – a study by the Singapore Epidemiology of Eye Diseases programme found that nearly 70%2 of Singaporean adults who are over the age of 40 and have visually significant cataracts were obliviously unaware of their condition. This lack of awareness means that many patients are unnecessarily suffering from poor eyesight when a quick and safe procedure can restore their vision. If you are reading this cataract guide, you have come to the right place to find out everything you need to know about this easily-treatable condition. What is a cataract?A cataract develops when the natural lens in our eyes becomes cloudy or opaque. This cloudiness is usually caused by aggregated protein, which results in blurring of vision. Even an early cataract can affect one’s colour perception and contrast sensitivity. A cataract is not just a concern for those in their old age; they can also appear as a result of eye injuries, or following eye surgery for other conditions. They can also be present from birth. In some developing nations, where healthcare and medical services may be less readily available, cataracts are a leading cause of blindness. Certain conditions are associated with early cataracts. These include high myopia, diabetes, prolonged steroid use, eye trauma, and smoking. The three main types of cataractsCataracts: The facts and figures in SingaporeDespite being easily treatable, cataract continues to be the leading cause of visual impairment amongst elderly adults in Singapore3 and other developed countries - Additionally, as our population continues to age, the number of people experiencing vision loss as a result of cataract will only increase4. In Singapore, 78.6% of the elderly are affected by cataracts. And it appears that the number of people affected by cataracts only increases with age - The condition affects 63.6% of people between the ages of 60 to 64, and a whopping 94.6% of individuals aged 75 and above. What are the risk factors of cataracts?A cataract is largely an age-related condition, which is why individuals over the age of 40 should pay increased attention to their vision and go for routine eye check-ups. Apart from ageing, cataracts are also associated with:
What are some of the common symptoms of cataracts?Usually, cataract patients do not experience itching, tearing or any headaches. Rather, common cataract symptoms include:
If you have cataracts, things might start to look dim or blurred, almost like you’re looking through a fog. As the cataract worsens, one’s vision will slowly become cloudier, eventually making it hard to even make out details or colours. If left untreated for too long, cataracts can sometimes result in glaucoma or even blindness, hence it is essential that you visit a trusted eye doctor if you experience these symptoms. If you’re still unsure about how cataracts affect your vision, try this online simulator to see the world from the eyes of a person with cataracts. What is a cataract check-up like?A screening or check-up for cataracts will typically involve various tests, including:
The actual test to confirm if there are cataracts in your eye involves instilling eye drops to dilate the pupil of your eye. Once your pupils are dilated, your eye doctor will use a Slit Lamp to look for signs of cataracts and other conditions. A photograph will be taken to document the appearance of your cataract. After your tests, you will have a consultation with your doctor, who will explain the examination findings, answer your questions, and openly discuss your condition and the treatment options available. What are the different treatment options available for cataracts?The only known effective way to treat cataracts is to surgically remove them. Thankfully, modern cataract surgery is a highly effective way of restoring vision to individuals who have become visually impaired due to cataracts. What are the procedures for cataract surgery like?The oldest surgical methods for removing cataracts date back to archaic techniques such as ‘couching8’ and ‘needling’, which are honestly best left un-googled as they look brutal. Thankfully, cataract surgery today is much less terrifying and way more effective, with excellent outcomes: Micro-incision phacoemulsification surgeryThis employs the use of ultrasound energy to liquify cataracts in the eye. The emulsified cataract is then removed via a 2-3mm incision. No stitches are required. The wounds are self-healing and allow for a speedier recovery. Laser-assisted cataract surgeryThis adopts the same technology used in LASIK. The procedure involves the use of a femtosecond laser to create incisions and fragment cataracts. However, studies have shown that, for routine cataracts, the outcomes of laser-assisted cataract surgery are not superior to cataract surgery without laser-assistance. Hence, the higher cost of laser-assisted cataract surgery is not justifiable for the vast majority of patients. Intraocular Lens (IOL)An intraocular lens implant is an artificial replacement for the lens of your eye, and a crucial part of the surgery process. Once cataracts and the natural lens have been removed, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted through a small 2-3mm incision. The implantation of the IOL is a permanent procedure, so the lens need not be replaced. An IOL is made of clear acrylic and comprises several different types9. Lens typeProsConsMonofocal IOLThis common IOL provides good vision at a specific distance.Toric monofocal IOLs also correct for astigmatism. Monovision: Provides good distance vision in one eye, and good close-up vision in the other This will allow most patients to be spectacle-independent. You might be able to see distant things perfectly well but will likely need glasses to see close up or read. For patients who choose monovision, you may not get used to using one eye for distance vision and one eye for near vision. This may also compromise your depth perception. These lenses should be used in both eyes for the most optimal results.After surgery, some people may notice: Difficulty reading small print in dim light Dimmer vision Seeing halos around lights and experience glare at night Most patients get used to these symptoms and are not bothered by them. However, monofocal IOLs still provide better quality of vision if one does not mind wearing spectacles for near vision.Extended Depth of Focus IOLsProvides good distance and intermediate vision without the need for glasses. This type of lens is suitable for those who: Want to rely on their glasses less for distant and intermediate distance vision (eg. using the computer) Do not mind wearing glasses for near vision Drive at night and in the dayNear vision is limited for patients with Extended Depth of Focus IOLs. After surgery, some people may: Require glasses for reading small print up close Seeing halos around lights and experience glare at night, though at a lesser extent compared with Multifocal IOLs Your choice of lenses depends on the health of your eye, your lifestyle, and your preferences. Discuss your IOL options with your doctor in detail before making your choice. Can I operate on both eyes on the same day?Due to very rare potential complications such as bilateral-eye infections, doctors usually recommend a separate surgery date for each eye. This is certainly the safer option, though for very rare circumstances, eg. a patient who requires general anaesthesia for cataract surgery for whom the risks of anaesthesia is high, rarely bilateral cataract surgery on the same day may be considered. What should one expect cataract surgery to be like?While it depends on the complexity of your condition, most cataract surgeries take 10-20 minutes. This is a day surgery procedure, so you can go home on the same day. Before surgery, most adult patients are given local anaesthetic and/or sedatives. Children undergoing cataract surgery, on the other hand, usually require general anaesthetic. Here’s what you need to know about preparing for cataract surgery: What happens during cataract surgery?To help you relax or to fall asleep, an anaesthetist will sedate you intravenously. Your doctor will assess whether you are suitable for sedation during surgery. Your surgeon will use anaesthetic eye drops to numb your eye so you will not feel any pain during the surgery, though you might experience a sensation of pressure on your eye. How soon can I resume normal activities post-surgery?After the procedure, a plastic shield will be placed over the operated eye to protect it for a day or two. Most patients can usually go home on the same day. You will be given medical leave that may last up to 4 weeks. Although it can take a month for the eye to fully recover, most patients are able to return to work the week after their surgery. If your work involves being in a dusty or smoky environment, it is recommended to stay away from work for a longer time. Post-operative reviews are typically scheduled at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month after surgery. What are some of the possible side effects or risks of treatment?Cataract surgery is a low-risk procedure with a very high success rate. However, all surgeries have potential complications. Infections after cataract surgery occur in 1 out of every 1,000 cases, and can result in blindness. The following are some other rare complications that may arise from surgery:
Apart from the risks listed above, the more common side effects encountered after cataract surgery are dry eye and night vision problems. And while these side effects are usually temporary, they may last up to 6 months. After going through surgery, it is important to closely monitor your condition. If you experience any increased redness, eyelid swelling, eye pain, eye discharge or blurring of vision, please make an appointment with your doctor immediately. Is there any way to avoid developing cataracts?Cataracts usually do not develop rapidly. In fact, it might take up to several years before a cataract gets to the point where it starts to affect a person’s daily life. The progression might be slow, but it is not reversible without surgery. How to prevent cataracts?
Who should get tested for cataracts?You should make it a point to go for regular eye check-ups once you hit the age of 40. Besides cataracts, there are other conditions that may affect your vision, such as retinal tears, macular degeneration, floaters, glaucoma, refractive errors, and more. With our eyes being potentially susceptible to a wide range of eye diseases, it is advisable to have regular full eye check-ups10 instead of just checking for the presence of cataracts. If you have any eye conditions in addition to cataracts, you may be eligible for cataract-plus procedures which offer additional benefit to cataract surgery alone. For example, glaucoma patients undergoing cataract surgery may choose to simultaneously undergo glaucoma surgery that’ll improve their eye pressure and lower their need for glaucoma medication. Such procedures may be more common than you think, as about 10% of Singaporeans aged 70 and above have glaucoma, according to CNA Lifestyle. When should one have cataract surgery?Many people think that in order to successfully remove a cataract, you have to wait till the cataract gets ‘ripe’ or ‘mature’ before going for surgery. This belief is bogus today - it stemmed from the time when cataract surgery had significant risks hence was only advised for advanced cataracts. The vast improvements in cataract surgery and the high safety profile of the procedure means that surgery can be offered for cataracts at any stage of development. There is really no need to wait until your cataract ‘ripens’ and becomes advanced as it may increase the risks and complexities of the surgery. If your cataracts are impairing your vision and interfering with your daily life, it’s time to see a trusted doctor. If your cataract is in its early stages and does not interfere with your daily activities, you may choose to delay having surgery. Moreover, as cataracts tend to affect your spectacles prescription, you’ll need to have your vision checked yearly and get a new pair of spectacles if need be. Which surgeon or eye clinic should you choose?When it comes to assessing the myriad of options available for potential cataract surgery, saving money and going cheap should not be prioritised above the credibility and reputation of your eye doctor or clinic. You would do well to check and read through reviews online. Don’t forget to ask trusted friends and family for recommendations. Also, your eye doctor should be able to listen to your needs, answer your questions, allay your fears, and eventually give you an unbiased consultation. Importantly, you should find a doctor who makes you feel comfortable and reassured. ConclusionIndividuals with visual impairment are known to have lower self-esteem compared to their sighted peers11. Further research states that for individuals with cataracts or other causes of visual impairment, healthy self-esteem is impacted by quality social support, independence in conducting their daily activities, patients’ perceived independence, and more12. Simply put, losing your vision is a slippery slope that you do not want to go down. Do not tarry, and keep your eye on the ball. Which doctor is best for cataract surgery?An ophthalmologist is the best doctor for cataract surgery because they specialize in the medical and surgical care for medical conditions related to the eye.
What is the best and safest cataract surgery?Traditional cataract surgery, also known as phacoemulsification, is the most common eye surgery in the world, and is considered safe and effective. Laser-assisted cataract surgery is the latest and most advanced method of performing cataract surgery.
What time of year is best for cataract surgery?Doctors suggest winter as a good time to get the surgery done as the season can help you recover quickly. But it is not really stringent, all you need to keep in mind is if the vision is getting excessively blurred and your daily activities are getting hampered, then get the cataract removed as soon as possible.
Is it better to have cataract surgery at a hospital?Cataract surgery is usually done at outpatient surgical centers, but some eye surgeons do the procedure in a hospital or private medical office. “There's no research to support better outcomes in one venue over another,” Shorstein says.
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