What kind of disease is a CATARACT ?


Are you familiar with cataracts ?
Many people probably know the name.
Cataracts are primarily a disease associated with aging.
In an aging society, the number of people requiring treatment is increasing, making it a common disease.


Causes of Cataracts
Cataracts are a disease in which the lens of the eye, which acts as a lens, becomes cloudy.
The lens becomes cloudy due to deformation of its proteins caused by various factors.
The most common cause is aging, but ultraviolet radiation, radiation, diabetes, trauma, atopic dermatitis, and congenital diseases can also be contributing factors.


Symptoms of Cataracts
Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the cataract.
In fact, not all patients come to the clinic complaining of decreased vision.
Other symptoms include:

Difficulty distinguishing steps or uneven surfaces
While you may think of cataracts as primarily causing decreased vision, many of the other symptoms are quite common.
If you experience any of these symptoms, we recommend consulting an ophthalmologist.

・Blurred or blurred vision
・Glare (especially at night)
・Difficulty distinguishing intermediate colors (such as gray)
・Difficulty distinguishing steps or uneven surfaces

While you may think of cataracts as primarily causing decreased vision, many of the other symptoms are quite common.
If you experience any of these symptoms, we recommend consulting an ophthalmologist.


Cataract Treatment
Cataract treatment primarily involves eye drops and surgery.
In cases of mild early-stage cataracts, eye drops are often chosen to slow or prevent progression.
However, surgical intervention is necessary for a complete cure of cataracts.
Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and inserting a new artificial lens.
Many facilities offer this procedure as a short, outpatient surgery, making it a very common procedure

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河田 一晃

Kazuaki Kawada