How Is Cataract Formed and What Causes It?

       In real life, as people age, many patients develop cataracts to varying degrees, significantly disrupting daily life—some may even become partially blind. So, how do cataracts form, and what causes them?

How Do Cataracts Form and What Causes Them?

Cataracts result from degeneration of the eye’s natural lens—akin to a raw egg transforming into a cooked one. This is a chemical denaturation process that is inherently irreversible. The primary cause involves abnormal barrier function and age-related changes in the lens capsule, combined with stimulation from aqueous humor originating elsewhere in the eye, which alters the internal lens environment and ultimately leads to progressive lens opacification. There is no effective conservative (non-surgical) treatment for lens opacity; whether surgery is indicated depends mainly on disease severity and its impact on quality of life.

Surgery is the only proven treatment for cataracts. Although lasers are sometimes used during the procedure, only surgical intervention can effectively treat cataracts. Several surgical approaches exist. Currently, the standard method is phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Historically, another technique—extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE), involving removal of the entire lens nucleus—was also employed. With advances in medical technology, ECCE is no longer practiced in major urban centers but may still be performed in some rural areas. Overall, modern cataract surgery continues to evolve toward smaller incisions, reduced tissue trauma, and faster visual recovery.

Regarding diet, emphasize light, nutrient-rich foods high in vitamins, antioxidants, and protein; avoid spicy, stimulating, or greasy foods. We hope this information proves helpful.