by Dr. ITUA ENAKHE (OD)
A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens that develops slowly. Early stages can be managed with glasses or aids, but surgery becomes necessary when vision significantly interferes with daily life. This guide explains key signs indicating when surgery is recommended, with real clinic examples from Nigerians referred by SpecSMART Eye Clinic (Ikeja).
What Is a Cataract?
A cataract is gradual clouding or opacity of the crystalline lens behind the colored iris, scattering light and causing symptoms from mild blurring to severe vision loss.
How Optometrists Decide If Surgery Is Needed
Optometrists measure vision, assess daily functioning, examine the lens via slit-lamp, evaluate glare and contrast sensitivity, review health, and refer to surgeons when vision is significantly impacted.
Common Signs That Usually Mean Surgery Should Be Considered
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Persistent blurry vision not fixed by glasses
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Severe glare and halos, especially at night
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Faded or yellowed color perception
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Double vision in one eye (monocular diplopia)
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Frequent spectacle prescription changes
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Difficulty reading despite adequate glasses and lighting
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Reduced contrast sensitivity, trouble with stairs or facial recognition
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One eye significantly worse than the other impacting function
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Cataract blocking retinal view needed for retinal disease management
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Rapidly progressing lens changes predicting quick vision loss
Clinical Examples
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Teacher with worsening blackboard reading
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Taxi driver unable to drive at night due to glare
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Tailor with double vision in one eye
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Diabetic patient needing retinal assessment visits
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Market trader with dulled color perception
Examination and Tests
Visual acuity, pinhole test, glare and contrast sensitivity assessments, slit-lamp examination, intraocular pressure measurement, binocular vision test, and retinal view checks.
Risk Factors
Age, diabetes, prolonged steroid use, eye trauma/surgery, smoking, high UV exposure, congenital cataracts.
After Referral: What to Expect
Surgical assessment, pre-op testing, intraocular lens options discussion, and surgery scheduling.
Surgery Benefits and Risks
Improved vision clarity and quality of life with generally safe surgery, though outcomes depend on retinal and optic nerve health. Possible risks include infection and inflammation, discussed by surgeon.
Practical Tips Before Surgery
Optimize health, prepare medication lists, arrange transport, follow pre-op instructions, discuss visual goals with provider.
Myths vs Facts
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Surgery is usually painless due to anesthesia.
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Younger patients can need surgery due to various causes.
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Surgery timing is based on visual impairment, not just “ripeness”.
When to See an Optometrist
If you experience any signs listed above, prompt evaluation and referral can preserve vision.
FAQs
Is cataract surgery urgent?
Only if vision impacts safety or retinal treatment; otherwise scheduling is elective.
Can cataracts come back?
The lens removed can’t reform cataracts but some develop treatable posterior capsule opacification.
Will I need glasses after surgery?
Often yes, for some tasks; lens type chosen affects this.
What are surgery risks?
Complications are rare but can include infection and inflammation.
📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
Ile-Oja Mall, Opebi Link Road, Ikeja
📞 0703 839 1197
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