How Long Does It Take To Go Blind From Cataracts? A Simplified Guide
Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions affecting people worldwide, particularly as they age. As the eye’s natural lens becomes clouded, vision deteriorates, potentially leading to blindness if left untreated. But how long does it take to go blind from cataracts?
The answer may vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of cataract, the individual’s overall health, and more.
This simple guide will walk you through cataracts, explain the different types of cataracts, and outline what to expect if you’re considering cataract surgery.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts occur when the eye’s lens becomes clouded. If left untreated, they can lead to blurred vision and, eventually, complete vision loss. The lens focuses light onto the retina, allowing clear vision.
Developing cataracts means the lens becomes opaque, causing progressive vision impairment. Cataracts are considered a typical part of ageing, but other factors, such as eye injuries, steroid medications, and underlying medical conditions like diabetes, may contribute to their formation.
How Long Does It Take To Go Blind From Cataracts?
The progression from mild symptoms to total vision loss can take years or even decades, depending on the type of cataract and the individual’s health. However, it may not be every day that you see someone go blind from cataracts, as treatment is typically available long before the condition reaches such a critical stage.
In all, there are several factors that influence how long it takes to go blind from cataracts, such as:
- Type Of cataract: Different cataracts progress at different rates.
- Age: Age-related cataracts often develop slowly, while paediatric or traumatic cataracts may progress faster.
- Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or poor nutrition can accelerate cataract growth.
- Exposure To Risk Factors: Prolonged exposure to UV light, steroid medications, or smoking can contribute to faster cataract development.
Types Of Cataracts
Understanding the different types of cataracts can give you a better idea of how they develop and how long it may take for vision loss to occur.
Age-Related Cataracts
These are the most common types and typically develop slowly over time. The ageing process causes proteins in the lens to clump together, leading to cloudiness. People with age-related cataracts often don’t experience significant vision problems until their 60s or 70s, although cataracts can start forming in their 40s or 50s.
Congenital Cataracts
Congenital cataracts are present at birth or progress during childhood. Genetic factors, infections during pregnancy, or developmental issues can cause these. Paediatric cataracts may progress quickly and require early intervention to prevent permanent vision loss.
Traumatic Cataracts
As the name suggests, traumatic cataracts develop after an eye injury. Depending on the severity of the trauma, these cataracts can form rapidly. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent cataracts from progressing to blindness.
Cortical Cataracts
These develop on the outer edges of the lens and gradually move inward, creating a “spoke-like” appearance. Cortical cataracts can cause significant vision problems, particularly in bright light, and may progress more quickly than other types.
What To Expect Before, During, And After Cataract Surgery
When cataracts begin to significantly affect your quality of life, your eye expert may recommend cataract surgery. This is a common procedure with a high success rate. It entails replacing the clouded lens with an artificial lens.
Cataract treatment aims to restore clear vision and prevent further vision impairment.
Pre-Surgery Preparations
Before cataract surgery, the eye doctor will conduct a detailed eye exam to measure the size and shape of your eye. This ensures that the artificial lens will fit precisely. You may also be advised to stop taking specific medications or tweak your diet in the days leading up to surgery.
The Cataract Surgery Procedure
During the surgery, the eye surgeon will make a small cut in the eye, remove the diseased lens, and replace it with a clear artificial lens. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes and is performed under local anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but won’t feel much pain.
Recovery After Cataract Surgery
Patients should experience improved vision within a few days of cataract surgery, although it may take several weeks for your vision to fully stabilise. During recovery, you must follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, including using prescribed eye drops and avoiding strenuous activities.
Long-Term Outlook After Cataract Surgery
With successful surgery, most patients regain clear vision and significantly improve their quality of life. In some cases, patients may still need glasses for reading or distance vision, but the overall outcome is typically positive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cataracts be reversed without surgery?
No, once a cataract has formed, it cannot be reversed without surgery. However, lifestyle changes such as wearing UV-protective sunglasses, adhering to a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking can slow the progression of cataracts. Cataract surgery remains the only effective treatment to remove cataracts and restore clear vision.
What are the risks of cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is a simple and common eye procedure. However, like any surgical procedure, there are some risks, including infection, inflammation, swelling, and, in rare cases, retinal detachment. Your eye expert will discuss these risks with you in detail before the procedure, but complications may be minimised when an experienced surgeon performs the surgery.
Can cataracts return after surgery?
Once a cataract has been removed, it cannot grow back. However, some patients may develop a condition known as “posterior capsule opacification” (PCO), which can cause blurry vision similar to cataracts. This is not a recurrence of cataracts and can be easily treated with a quick, straightforward laser procedure to restore clear vision.
Cataracts And Vision Loss: Early Detection Is Key
Cataracts are a common but manageable cause of vision loss. While it can take years or even decades to go blind from cataracts, early detection and timely intervention with cataract surgery can prevent total vision loss and restore clear vision.
By taking proactive steps to protect your eyes and monitor for signs of cataracts, you can maintain your vision and enjoy a high quality of life well into your later years.
If you’ve noticed changes in your vision or suspect cataracts might be affecting your daily life, feel free to reach out to us. Our experienced team in Melbourne is here to guide you through every step of the journey towards a better vision.
Call Armadale Eye Clinic today at (03) 9070 5753 to start your path to clearer, brighter vision!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Sources:
Ames H 2023. What to know about cataracts and vision loss. Medical News Today. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-cataracts-cause-blindness [Accessed September 18, 2024]
Graham R H MD 2023. Traumatic Cataract. Medscape. Available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1211083-overview [Accessed September 18, 2024]
Healthdirect Australia 2024. Cataracts. Healthdirect. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cataracts [Accessed September 18, 2024]
Mayo Clinic Staff 2023. Cataracts – Diagnosis and Treatment. Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353795 [Accessed September 18, 2024]
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