DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Ophthalmologic Disease

Senile Cataract

MODERATE

Clouding of the eye's natural lens that occurs with aging. The most common type of cataract and a leading cause of vision impairment worldwide. Develops gradually over years. Surgery is the only effective treatment and is highly successful.

Global Affected

95.0M

Countries

89

Symptoms

Cloudy/blurry vision
Difficulty with night driving
Glare/halos around lights
Fading/yellowing of colors
Double vision in one eye
Frequent prescription changes
Need for brighter light

Treatment Options

Updated glasses prescription
Brighter lighting
Anti-glare sunglasses
Magnifying lenses
Phacoemulsification surgery
IOL implantation
Femtosecond laser surgery
YAG capsulotomy (after-cataract)

Risk Factors

1Age >60
2UV radiation exposure
3Diabetes
4Smoking
5Excessive alcohol
6Long-term steroid use
7Previous eye surgery
8Obesity
9Hypertension
10Family history

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Visual acuity test
  • 2Slit-lamp examination
  • 3Retinal exam (dilated)
  • 4Refraction test
  • 5Contrast sensitivity testing
  • 6Glare testing

Prognosis

Excellent with surgery. 95%+ success rate. Vision fully restored. Quick recovery (days to weeks). Minimal complications. Most common elective surgery worldwide.

Prevention

  • UV protection (sunglasses)
  • Quit smoking
  • Limit alcohol
  • Manage diabetes
  • Healthy diet (antioxidants)
  • Regular eye exams
  • Manage cardiovascular risk factors

Research Status

Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is standard. Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery available. Various IOL options (monofocal, multifocal, toric). Outpatient procedure, high success rate.

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.