What is Cataract?
Cataract is the loss of transparency of the lens of the eye over time. Cataract is mostly a slow-developing condition. As the transparency is lost, blurred vision gradually develops.

Symptoms of Cataract:

• Glare

• Decreased quality of vision

• Light scattering while driving at night

• General blurry vision

• Hazy vision

NOT ONLY SEEN IN THE ELDERLY
Cataracts can be seen from the newborn period and at every stage of life. However, it becomes more frequent with advancing age. By the time you reach your 80s-90s, it can occur in up to 90% of people. Cataract can also occur in children and young people, but it presents differently. Sometimes we have more concerns depending on age groups, and in some cases, we look for other underlying causes. For instance, cataract disease can appear earlier in diabetic patients. In children, if diagnosed, metabolic diseases and some syndromes might come to mind.

EARLY DIAGNOSIS IS VERY IMPORTANT
If left untreated for a long time, cataracts can lead to complications. If the cataract has become very mature, it can cause inflammation inside the eye or increased intraocular pressure. Elevated intraocular pressure is a silent disease and can lead to blindness. Furthermore, in diabetic patients, retinal diseases can worsen, but cataracts may mask this issue. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

SURGERY IS DONE ONCE
Cataract surgery is a very simple procedure and is done once. The operation lasts about 15 minutes and is one of the most common and successful surgeries worldwide. The risks of cataract surgery are much lower compared to the risks of living with cataracts. The day after the surgery, patients usually return to their previous vision level and can resume daily activities within 5-7 days. Moreover, custom intraocular lenses can be planned for the patient, allowing them to be free from glasses for both near and distant vision.