Cataracts: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment in ViennaVienaMed
Blurred vision, less intense colors and increased sensitivity to light may be signs of cataract.
The condition usually evolves slowly, and at first changes can be easily ignored. However, over time cataracts can make reading, driving, face recognition and other normal activities difficult.
Cataracts are among the main causes of global visual impairment and blindness. Every year more than 20 million cataracts are performed, and about 9 out of 10 people see better after the intervention. However, the outcome of each patient depends on the general condition of the eyes, associated diseases and the evaluation by the ophthalmologist.
What is cataract?
The cataract represents the opacification of the natural lens of the eye. The lens is behind the iris and is meant to focus light on the retina, so that the image is clear. When it loses transparency, the light does not reach the retina properly, and the vision gradually becomes unclear.
The condition occurs most frequently with increasing age, but can also be favored by diabetes, eye trauma, long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation, smoking or long-term use of certain medications such as corticosteroids. Rarely, cataracts may be present since birth.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
Cataracts usually do not cause pain and can develop over several months or years. The most common signs include:
- blurred, cloudy or fog vision;
- Colours that appear to be more or less intense;
- increased sensitivity to the sun, headlamps or other strong light sources;
- halos around the lights;
- Weak night vision;
- the need to change glasses frequently;
- double vision in one eye;
- difficulty reading, driving or face recognition.
These manifestations may also occur in other eye conditions. Therefore, the diagnosis should not be based solely on symptoms, but upon a complete eye examination.
How is cataract diagnosed?
The evaluation may include measurement of visual acuity, examination of the lens and structures of the eye, measurement of intraocular pressure and examination of the retina after dilation of the pupil. Precise measurements of the eye, necessary for the selection of the power and type of intraocular lens, are performed prior to any operation.
The consultation is also important for detecting other problems that may influence the visual result, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.
When is cataract surgery recommended?
The presence of cataracts does not automatically mean that the operation must be performed immediately. In the early stages, the appropriate glasses, better lighting and protection against bright light can help temporarily.
The intervention is considered when the decrease in vision affects daily activities and quality of life or when the opacified crystalline prevents the examination or treatment of other eye diseases. The right time is determined individually, together with the ophthalmologist, after discussing the benefits, limits and risks.
How's the cataract operation going?
During the intervention, the opacified natural crystalline is removed and replaced by an artificial, transparent intraocular lens. Modern surgery frequently uses techniques with small incision, and the procedure is usually performed with local anaesthesia.
In private clinics Mavie Med in Vienna, such as Privatklinik Döbling and Privatklinik Confraternität, cataract surgery can be performed under day-long hospitalization. After intervention and the necessary period of supervision, the patient can leave the clinic on the same day if the doctor confirms that the evolution is appropriate.
Choice of intraocular lens
Artificial lens is not chosen the same for each patient. The recommendation depends on the anatomy of the eye, lifestyle, profession, associated eye diseases and expectations regarding the use of glasses after surgery.
Depending on the medical indication, it may be discussed:
- monofocal lenses, designed primarily for a single distance;
- Casing and tubing of a kind used in drilling for oil or gas, which can also correct certain forms of astigmatism;
- multi-focal lenses or EDOF, intended for extension of the range of vision but not suitable for each patient.
The doctor explains the advantages and limits of each option. No lens can guarantee complete removal of the glasses and the objective of treatment should be realistically established prior to intervention.
What's next after the operation?
In the first days, vision can be temporarily blurred and the eye can be more sensitive to light. The doctor can prescribe drops and will establish post-operative controls. It is important that the patient complies with the recommendations on eye hygiene, physical effort, driving and resumption of normal activities.
Like any operation, cataract surgery carries risks, although serious complications are uncommon. Possible complications include infection, inflammation, bleeding, raised pressure inside the eye, retinal problems and displacement of the lens. Before surgery, your surgeon should explain your individual risk and the warning signs to watch for.
Treatment of cataracts in Vienna with VienaMed support
For one patient in Romania, choosing the right doctor and organizing treatment in another country may seem complicated. VienaMed facilitates access of Romanian patients to consultations, investigations and eye treatments in private clinics in Vienna.
The VienaMed team can support you by:
- the identification of the specialist according to the medical situation;
- scheduling consultations and investigations;
- submission of medical documents to the clinic;
- coordination of diagnostic, treatment and monitoring phases;
- assistance during the medical trip to Vienna.
If you have noticed changes in your vision or already have a cataract diagnosis, a specialist consultation can help you find out how advanced your condition is and what treatment options are suitable for you.
Contact VienaMed for the assessment of the application and the organisation of an eye consultation in Vienna.
This article is intended for information purposes and does not replace the consultation, diagnosis or recommendation of an ophthalmologist.
If you’re getting ready for a consult in Austria, see guide from medical records to consultation in Vienna.