Taking eyesight for granted is natural till issues come up and then it hits you on the importance of one’s eyesight. June is Cataract Awareness Month to raise awareness of cataracts, their symptoms, and the range of treatments available.
A common eye illness known as ‘cataract’ causes the lens to become cloudy, impairing vision and even impacting daily activities. Here are some essential ideas to help spread awareness about cataracts and encourage early diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding cataracts: Cataracts are caused by protein clumping in the eye’s lens, which impairs vision. They may appear quickly as a result of an injury or other events, or they may appear gradually over time.
Common signs and symptoms: Educate people about the common signs of cataracts, including:
Blurred or hazy vision: Individuals may notice that their vision becomes progressively blurry, making it difficult to read, drive, or see distant objects clearly.
Sensitivity to light: Cataracts can make people more sensitive to bright lights or glare, causing discomfort and difficulty in certain environments.
Difficulty with night vision: Those with cataracts may find it challenging to see clearly in low-light situations, such as at night or in dimly lit areas.
Fading or yellowing of colors: Cataracts can cause colors to appear less vibrant or may add a yellowish tint to the vision.
Seeking professional help: Advise individuals to consult an eye care professional if they experience any symptoms of cataracts. An eye doctor can perform a comprehensive examination and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment options: Discuss the available treatment options for cataracts, which typically involve surgery. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure where the clouded lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.
By raising awareness about cataracts during Cataract Awareness Month, you can play a vital role in helping people identify the signs early, seek appropriate treatment, and ultimately improve their quality of life through better vision.
