Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated : June 1, 2016 11:19 AM IST
Read this in HINDI.
My 60-year-old mother was diagnosed with cataract. However, the doctor said that she doesn't need surgery. As far as I know, surgery is recommended for people suffering from cataract. Can it be treated through medication?
Dr. Rajesh Mishra, Consultant, Cataract and Glaucoma Clinic, Advanced Eye Hospital, Vashi says, An ophthalmologist usually doesn t advise surgery straight away if the cataract is in it early stage and isn t interfering with normal day-to-day activities. However, she might have to undergo surgery as her vision deteriorates gradually. There is no need to rush into a decision about treatment because the decision to avoid surgery at an early stage does not usually impact vision or lead to any complications.' Click here to know more about the right time for cataract surgery .
Can cataract be treated without surgery?
As the FDA (food and drugs administration) has not approved any drops that cure or delay cataract, surgery is the only treatment. Cataracts are not preventable, but they are treatable. During the surgery, your surgeon removes the cloudy lens in your eye and replaces it with an artificial one. It s a simple operation and takes only 10 to 20 minutes and you can even go home the same day. The surgery improves your vision and helps you to see better. Also, research has shown that you are less likely to hurt yourself in an accident or fall after going through cataract surgery, says Dr. Rajesh Mishra.
However, less than 10 people in 100 have reported complications during surgery. Around 25 out of 100 people experience mild problems like bruising, pain, inflammation, or an infection, a couple of days after the operation, which can be easily treated. Some eye problems might occur months or even years after your operation. Although cataracts can't grow back, sometimes the tissue around the new lens turns cloudy. This happens to about 20% of cases and can be treated with laser surgery. Also, read about 4 ways to keep your eyes healthy as you age.
Image Source: Shutterstock
For more articles on diseases & conditions, visit our diseases & conditions section. For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter.For health related Q&A, click here!
