Can Untreated Cataracts Lead to Blindness?
Cataracts are a common eye condition affecting millions of people around the world.
They occur when the eye’s clear lens becomes cloudy, resulting in distorted and hazy vision.
As per Deengrosseyte, 9.14 percent of people between the ages of 55 and 59 get cataracts and the number increases as we age.
Even though cataracts are typically not a severe condition, surgery is recurrently an option for treatment.
But if ignored, untreated cataracts lead to blindness.
Without Surgery
Cataracts can grow larger and denser over time, making them more challenging to see.
Blindness can result from a cloudy lens that eventually stops all light from entering the eye.
Cataracts can also lead to other complications, such as Glaucoma and Macular degeneration.
Both of these conditions can further damage the eyes and result in vision loss.
Also, cataracts can make it more challenging to carry out regular tasks like reading, driving, and even recognizing people.
As a result, there may be a drop in quality of life and a rise in the likelihood of accidents, slips, and falls.
Therefore, getting treated for cataracts as soon as possible is critical to stop further vision loss and enhance the overall quality of life.
With Surgery
Cataract surgery can remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens in a safe and efficient manner.
The procedure can be finished in less than an hour and is typically done as an elective procedure.
Summary
In conclusion, early-stage cataracts might not be a severe condition.
If left untreated, they can cause blindness and other complications.
It’s crucial to see an eye doctor as soon as you notice cataract symptoms.
These include blurry vision, trouble seeing at night, or glare from bright lights.
This will help the doctor determine the best course of treatment.
You can enjoy clear vision and a higher quality of life if cataracts are successfully managed with early detection and proper treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can cataracts cause blindness?
The National Eye Institute says cataracts can form in the early stages of life, but they progress slowly. Cataracts start to impair vision at age 60 or so.
What if a cataract is left untreated?
If left untreated, cataracts can cause significant disturbance in one’s life. This interferes with everyday activities like driving a car or playing computer games. In the long term, it will lead to complete blindness. So, early detection and treatment are necessary.
Can blindness from cataracts be reversed?
Yes, cataract surgery can reverse blindness to some extent. This is possible due to removing the natural lens and adding an artificial lens put in its place.
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