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Don’t wait until the world fades into a blur: Cataracts can be treated

Cataracts, medically known as cataracta, are among the most common eye diseases, particularly affecting the older population. This condition is caused by clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which blocks light from properly entering the eye and gradually impairs vision. Although cataracts are a natural part of the aging process, the only effective treatment is surgical – and timely intervention can preserve not only the quality of sight but also significantly improve a patient’s overall quality of life.

How do cataracts develop and who is most at risk?

The primary cause of cataracts is the aging of the eye’s lens. Most people aged between 65 and 75 are affected. Other contributing factors include genetic predisposition, lifestyle habits, and certain medications (such as corticosteroids). In some cases, cataracts can also occur in younger patients due to trauma or chronic illness.

Symptoms you shouldn’t ignore

“Typical symptoms of cataracts include blurred, hazy, or distorted vision both at near and far distances. Patients often describe it as looking through fog or dirty glass. There is also increased sensitivity to light, glare while driving at night, and changes in colour perception – colours appear dull or washed out. These changes come on gradually, so many people adapt to them and fail to associate them with an eye condition,” explains Radan Zugar, MD, Chief Doctor of the Clinic at Eye Centre Prague.

The decline in visual quality can significantly interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. In older adults, it often impacts not only physical independence but also mental well-being – poor vision leads to insecurity, fear of falling, and withdrawal from social life. Without timely treatment, cataracts can eventually lead to severe vision loss or even blindness.

When is surgery necessary?

There is no exact timeline for cataract surgery – the decision depends on how much the condition interferes with a patient’s everyday life. However, delaying surgery too long is generally not recommended.

“The more advanced the cataract becomes, the harder and denser the lens gets, making it more difficult to remove. The surgery becomes more complex, the risk of complications increases, and recovery takes longer. Patients also needlessly suffer from impaired vision, which could be corrected quickly and safely with surgery. What’s more, the procedure is fully covered by health insurance,” explains Dr. Zugar.

Timely surgery brings a range of benefits beyond clear, sharp vision:

• Increased safety – more confident movement at home and outdoors, reduced risk of falls
• Restored independence – return to daily tasks without relying on others
• Boosted self-esteem – improved spatial awareness, greater willingness to engage socially
• Better quality of life – renewed ability to enjoy hobbies and activities previously limited by poor vision

In addition, cataract surgery can uncover other eye diseases that were previously hidden by the cloudy lens – such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or optic nerve diseases. Early diagnosis of these conditions is crucial for starting appropriate treatment and preventing further vision loss.

Nothing to fear: The surgery is quick and painless

Cataract surgery is now considered one of the most common and safest surgical procedures. It is performed on an outpatient basis and usually takes only a few dozen minutes. The eye is numbed with anesthetic eye drops, making the procedure painless, with little to no discomfort.

“Many patients are afraid of cataract surgery because they expect it to be painful. However, it’s performed under local anaesthesia using drops that numb the eye, so the procedure is truly pain-free. In fact, many patients tell us afterwards that they were worried for no reason,” adds Dr. Zugar.

A focus on prevention

Although cataracts are a common part of aging, they don’t have to mean the end of clear vision. Thanks to modern medicine and safe surgical techniques, patients can once again see clearly and live without restrictions. Don’t postpone seeing your eye doctor – especially if you are over 60. And if you’ve already been diagnosed with cataracts, don’t hesitate to proceed with surgery once your daily life is affected.