eye care 1 | Page 25

The main causes of cataract are: Radiation: Sometimes radiation exposure may lead to cataract. Age Related: Cataract incidence increases and more likely to be seen after 60 years of age. Congenital: This is when cataract is present at birth Traumatic: This is when cataract is the result of an injury Secondary: When cataract is linked to some other conditions like Diabetes, Hypertension, Corticosteroid use etc. What are the symptoms of cataract? Cataract can have variety of visual problems such as: • Foggy or misty vision as if looking through a steamed window • Difficulty in reading despite new glasses • Glare in bright lights and sunlight, especially in urban built up areas • Poor night vision particularly during driving • Double or multiple images • Difficulty in either appreciating colours • Frequent change in the power of spectacles differentiating or If you have any of the above symptoms, you might be developing a cataract. Your ophthalmologist will be able to confirm this. 22