Cataracts are a common vision problem that affects millions of people worldwide. If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts or have heard about them, you may know there are different types. This blog will explore three main types of cataracts: nuclear sclerotic, cortical, and posterior subcapsular. Understanding these different types will help you gain insight into the specific characteristics, causes, and treatments associated with each.
Nuclear Sclerotic Cataracts
Nuclear sclerotic cataracts, also known as nuclear cataracts, are the most common type, typically associated with aging. These cataracts develop slowly, gradually affecting the center of the lens. Key points about nuclear sclerotic cataracts include:
Characteristics: The lens becomes hard and yellow, gradually impacting distance vision and color perception.
Symptoms: Blurred vision especially for faraway objects, difficulty seeing in low light conditions, and experiencing a yellow or brown tint to vision.
Causes: Nuclear sclerotic cataracts occur due to the natural aging process and the hardening and yellowing of the lens over time.
Treatment: When the cataract significantly affects vision and impairs daily activities, cataract surgery is recommended. The clouded lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.
Cortical Cataracts
Cortical cataracts develop in the lens cortex, the outer part of the lens, and progress inward towards the center. These cataracts have distinct wedge-shaped spokes that extend from the outer edge to the center of the lens. Key points about cortical cataracts include:
Characteristics: The cataract forms as white or grayish opacities in the lens, resembling the spokes of a wheel. Over time, the spokes may extend towards the center and interfere with vision.
Symptoms: Blurred vision, difficulty with contrast sensitivity, glare, and problems seeing in bright light or while driving at night.
Causes: Cortical cataracts can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, diabetes, or the prolonged use of corticosteroid medications.
Treatment: As with other cataract types, when vision is significantly affected, cataract surgery is typically recommended. The clouded lens is removed and replaced with an artificial IOL to restore clear vision.
Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts
Posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSCs) develop at the back of the lens, closer to the center, right beneath the lens capsule. They tend to progress faster compared to other types of cataracts. Key points about posterior subcapsular cataracts include:
Characteristics: PSCs form as a small, opaque area on the posterior surface of the lens capsule. They may eventually grow and interfere with central and near vision.
Symptoms: Blurred, hazy vision, difficulty reading, sensitivity to light and glare, and problems with night vision.
Causes: PSCs can be caused by various factors, including age-related changes, exposure to UV radiation, certain medications like corticosteroids, or conditions like diabetes or high myopia (nearsightedness).
Treatment: When vision is significantly impacted, cataract surgery is typically recommended. The cloudy lens is removed, and an artificial IOL is implanted to restore clear vision.
When to See an Eye Doctor for
If you suspect you have cataracts or notice changes in your vision, it’s essential to consult with an eye care professional. They will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to diagnose and determine the type and severity of your cataract. Based on their findings, they can recommend appropriate treatment options or monitor the progression of your cataracts over time.
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