.webp)
Cataract Awareness Month is observed every year in June to educate people about one of the most common causes of vision loss — cataracts. This annual observance is a reminder to take eye health seriously and prioritize regular checkups to protect our vision. Cataracts affect millions of people worldwide, especially as they grow older, but the good news is that they can be treated effectively.
In this blog by Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad, we explain what cataracts are, their symptoms, causes, treatment options, history, prevention tips, and why you should never ignore signs of vision changes.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is the clouding of the eye's natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. In a healthy eye, the lens is clear, allowing light to pass through easily so that the retina receives a sharp image. But when a cataract forms, it scatters or blocks the light, leading to blurry or dim vision.
Cataracts usually develop slowly and are not painful. But over time, they can interfere with your ability to read, drive, recognize faces, or perform daily activities comfortably.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts may not show clear symptoms in the beginning. As the condition progresses, you may notice:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Faded or yellowed colors
- Trouble seeing at night
- Halos around lights
- Double vision in one eye
- Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses
Protect your vision! Book an eye check-up with our best ophthalmologists at Continental Hospitals this Cataract Month.
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts are mostly related to aging, but they can also develop due to other factors:
Age: The most common cause, usually after the age of 60
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the eye lens
Smoking: Increases the risk of cataracts
Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake may contribute
Prolonged exposure to sunlight: Especially without UV protection
Eye injuries or surgeries
Certain medications: Like steroids over a long period
Genetics: Family history of cataracts can be a risk factor
Types of Cataracts
There are several types of cataracts, based on where and how they develop:
Nuclear cataracts: Form in the center of the lens, common with aging
Cortical cataracts: Develop at the edges of the lens and move inward
Posterior subcapsular cataracts: Affect the back of the lens, progress faster
Congenital cataracts: Present at birth or develop during childhood
Secondary cataracts: Develop due to other medical conditions or medications
Traumatic cataracts: Caused by eye injury
Knowing the type of cataract helps doctors choose the right treatment plan.
History of Cataract Awareness and Treatment
Cataracts have been known since ancient times. The first documented treatment dates back to as early as 600 BC in India, where surgeons performed a technique called "couching" to push the cloudy lens away from the line of sight.
However, modern cataract surgery became safer and more effective in the 20th century with the development of techniques like phacoemulsification (ultrasound-based lens removal) and the use of intraocular lenses (IOLs) to replace the cloudy lens. Cataract Awareness Month was later introduced to educate the public, promote early detection, and reduce the burden of avoidable blindness.
How Are Cataracts Diagnosed?
Cataracts can be detected during a routine eye examination. Your eye doctor may perform tests such as:
Visual acuity test: Checks how well you can read letters on a chart
Slit-lamp examination: Allows close-up examination of the eye structures
Retinal exam: With pupil dilation to check the retina
Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside the eye
Early diagnosis can prevent complications and preserve vision.
Treatment Options for Cataracts
In the early stages, a change in your eyeglasses prescription may help manage cataract symptoms. However, surgery is the only effective treatment for cataracts that significantly affect your vision.
Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens (intraocular lens). It is one of the safest and most common surgeries worldwide, with a high success rate and minimal recovery time.
At Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad, cataract surgery is performed by experienced ophthalmologists using advanced techniques and equipment. We offer personalized care before, during, and after the procedure for the best outcomes.
Preventing Cataracts: Steps You Can Take
While you can’t completely prevent cataracts, especially those related to aging, you can reduce the risk and delay their progression:
- Wear sunglasses that block 100% UV rays
- Quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol
- Manage chronic conditions like diabetes effectively
- Eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants (leafy greens, fruits, nuts)
- Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
- Schedule regular eye exams to detect early changes
- Protect your eyes from injury during sports or work
Good lifestyle habits and eye protection go a long way in supporting long-term vision health.
Why Choose Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad?
At Continental Hospitals, we believe that clear vision is your right, not a luxury. Our Department of Ophthalmology offers:
- Highly experienced eye specialists and surgeons
- Latest diagnostic tools and surgical technology
- Personalized eye care plans for every patient
- Comfortable and well-equipped facilities
- A team that prioritizes safety, precision, and patient satisfaction
Whether you need a simple eye checkup or advanced cataract surgery, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Conclusion
Cataract Awareness Month 2025 reminds us that vision loss from cataracts is not only common but also treatable. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and prevention of cataracts can help you take control of your eye health.
Protect your vision! Book an eye check-up with our best ophthalmologists at Continental Hospitals this Cataract Month.
