•Dr Priscilia Imade
There are several types of cataracts, described based on their location within the eye or the cause of their development. Here are some common types:
Nuclear Cataracts: These form in the center (nucleus) of the lens and are typically associated with aging. They often cause a gradual yellowing or browning of the lens, leading to vision changes such as increased nearsightedness and difficulty seeing in low light.
Cortical Cataracts: Cortical cataracts begin as wedge-shaped opacities on the outer edges of the lens and extend toward the center. They can cause glare, halos around lights, and difficulty with contrast sensitivity, especially in bright light.
Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts (PSC): These form at the back of the lens capsule, directly in the path of light entering the eye. PSC cataracts can develop more rapidly than other types and often cause significant glare and halos, especially when looking at bright lights.
Congenital Cataracts: Present at birth or develop during childhood, congenital cataracts may be hereditary or associated with factors such as infection during pregnancy or certain medical conditions. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent vision impairment or amblyopia (lazy eye).
Traumatic Cataracts: These form as a result of eye injury, such as blunt trauma or penetrating trauma. They can occur immediately after the injury or develop gradually over time due to inflammation or changes in the eye’s structures.
Secondary Cataracts: Also known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO), secondary cataracts can develop months or years after cataract surgery. They occur when lens epithelial cells left behind during surgery proliferate and migrate across the posterior lens capsule, causing visual disturbances similar to those of a cataract.
Radiation Cataracts: Exposure to ionizing radiation, such as during cancer treatment, can increase the risk of developing cataracts. Radiation cataracts may take years to develop following exposure.
Each type of cataract can cause varying degrees of visual impairment and may require different approaches to treatment, including lifestyle changes, prescription eyewear, or surgical intervention such as cataract removal and intraocular lens implantation.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
