What is cataract ?
A cataract is the leading cause of blindness in India and the best solution is to get operated with the replacement of the cataractous lens with a premium quality Intraocular lens. At Karunya Eye Hospital, we have the state-of-the-art technology to handle all the routine and complicated
cataracts with the experienced surgical team. We have a wide range of IOLs to fit in all class of profiles without compromising the quality of services.

Cataract – Is it because of your parents, your lifestyle?
A cataract is a disease that affects the lens of the eye. The human lens, like the lens of a camera, focuses light on the retina (the camera film). Typically, the human lens contains soluble proteins and water that are arranged in a specific pattern to give the lens its transparent nature. It is this transparency that enables light to pass through and focus on the retina, to be picked up by the optic nerve to form an image of what you see. As we grow old, the proteins start clumping together and clouding the lens, and this is called Cataract. Besides aging, cataract can also develop due to exposure to UV rays, injury, prolonged use of certain medications, etc.

Cataract symptoms – common signs you just can’t miss
The symptoms of cataract largely depend on the type of cataract that’s developing in the lens. Not all cataracts are alike. While for some people, it develops in the center of the lens others could develop it around the lens’ periphery while few others might have it at the back of their lens. Some of the most common symptoms, however, are blurry/clouded vision, sensitivity to bright light, dull appearance of colors, change in spectacle prescription, etc. In the case of pediatric cataract, you’ll find that the kid does not react well to light or colorful objects. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, please visit your eye doctor and get a check-up done immediately.

Cataract prevention – myth or magic?
Prevention of cataract is an arguable subject. While there’s no concrete proof on what could reduce the risk of cataract, there’s no harm in practicing a healthy lifestyle that includes a diet rich in nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids along with some exercise and ample sleep. If not reducing the risk of cataract, there’s a good chance that your quality of life will be greatly improved with these minor inclusions in your routine!

Did you know?

Although cataract affects both men and women, the fairer sex is at greater risk to develop this disease. Is it their complex neurological setup the reason? Well, we know not!

Cataract treatment – regain your vision
Cataracts can be easily treated with simple surgery. After your initial rounds of consultation, you’ll be counseled for surgery depending on the severity of your condition. On the day of surgery, you’ll be prepped and given local anesthesia. Your eye surgeon will perform a process called phacoemulsification during which the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear man-made focussing lens. These artificial lenses (called an intraocular lens implant, or IOL) remain permanently inside your eye and do not degrade. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes and
is absolutely painless.

Cataract surgery is usually a day care procedure, which means that you will go home on the day of your operation. However, you may wish to arrange for someone to stay overnight with you at home on the day of surgery.

Cataract surgery costs – what to expect?
Cataract surgeries can cost you a few thousands depending on the type of IOL (artificial lens) you are opting for. Our counselors will be able to help you with details pertaining to the benefits of each lens type and the one that will suit you best.

Modern Operation Theatres for infection free Cataract Surgery
The Cataract Operation theatres at KEH are very advanced and have all the safety and infection control measures like HEPA filters, Jointless floor & ceiling, Laminar flow, etc in place. The HEPA filters do not allow any bacteria or particles more than 0.3microns into the OT and Laminar flow system makes sure that the OT is always under little higher pressure to prevent the ingress of any air into the OT. Jointless floor, ceilings, and walls prevent lodging of bacteria into crevices or joints and hence infections become uncommon after cataract surgery at Karunya Eye Hospital.

What to expect after Cataract Surgery?
Just knowing what will happen and what we are expected to do, can ease a lot of our anxieties. Cataract surgery involves removing the natural eye lens which has opacified and replacing it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). A cataract operation is usually performed by Phacoemulsification. Newer stitchless cataract surgeries called MICS (minimal incision cataract surgery) help a faster and gentler recovery. Nonetheless, cataract surgery requires some precautions after the surgery. Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts that a patient is expected to
follow after Cataract Surgery.

DON’TS:

• Do not rub your eye with your hands. This can impair the healing process after stitchless surgery. Also, it can cause eye infections. If your eye waters or itches, you can wipe it gently with a clean tissue or a sterile, moist cotton swab.
• Do not have a shower bath for the first 7 days after surgery. You can take a bath below the chin only and use a wet towel to wipe your face.
• Eye washing with normal water is not allowed for 7 days.
• Do not indulge in activities that might cause damage to your eyes. Do not play with children or engage in contact sports or activities like swimming for a month to avoid any chances of infections or injuries.

DO’S:

• You may begin shaving after the 3rd day after Cataract Operation.
• You can resume activities like watching TV or shopping after 2-3 days of surgery. You may resume all your routine household activities
  after a week.

EYE DROPS:

• Do instill eye drops regularly, as advised by your eye doctor.
• Do wash your hands with soap and water before you apply any eye medications.
• Do wear a protective eye cap at night for a week.
• Do clean your eyes with clean boiled water using cotton, 2-3 times a day.
• Do contact your eye surgeon immediately if there is any problem.

Do not lift heavy weights. If possible, avoid deep and straining cough, sneezing and straining hard for stools for a month. These activities might increase the pressure in your eyes.