Cataract Associated with Systemic Diseases: Definition, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Cataract associated with systemic diseases refers to a type of cataract that is caused by or associated with other systemic diseases. This type of cataract can cause a decrease in vision and can be caused by a variety of factors. In this article, we will discuss the definition, causes, symptoms, and treatment options for cataract associated with systemic diseases.

Definition

Cataract associated with systemic diseases refers to a type of cataract that is caused by or associated with other systemic diseases. These opacities can cause a decrease in vision by scattering light as it passes through the lens. Cataract associated with systemic diseases can occur in people of any age, but it is more common in people with certain underlying diseases.

Causes

Cataract associated with systemic diseases can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperthyroidism can increase the risk of developing cataracts.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies, such as a deficiency in Vitamin C and Vitamin E, can increase the risk of developing cataracts.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase the risk of developing cataracts.
  • Environmental factors: Exposure to UV radiation, smoking, and pollution can increase the risk of developing cataracts.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cataract associated with systemic diseases can vary depending on the location and severity of the opacities. Some common symptoms include:

  • Blurred vision: The formation of opacities in the lens can scatter light, causing blurred vision.
  • Glare and halos: Cataracts can cause glare and halos around lights, making it difficult to see at night.
  • Faded colors: The opacities in the lens can make colors appear faded and less vibrant.
  • Distorted vision: The opacities in the lens can cause distortions in vision, such as straight lines appearing curved.
  • Decreased visual acuity
  • Difficulty seeing in bright light

Treatment

The treatment of cataract associated with systemic diseases depends on the underlying disease, the severity of the cataract, and the symptoms that the patient is experiencing. In the early stages of cataract, glasses or contact lenses may be used to correct vision. However, as the condition progresses, surgery may be necessary to remove the opacities and replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one.

The most common surgical procedure for cataract associated with systemic diseases is called phacoemulsification. This procedure uses ultrasound energy to break up the lens and remove the opacities. An artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL), is then inserted into the eye to replace the natural lens.

After the surgery, the patient will need to use eye drops to help prevent infection and inflammation, as well as to aid in healing. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week, but it may take several weeks for the eye to fully heal and for vision to improve.

It's important to note that systemic diseases need to be treated and controlled before cataract surgery, as some systemic disease can increase the risk of complications during and after the surgery.

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