What should I do about cataracts in both eyes?
Jun 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen You
Introduction
Cataracts in both eyes cannot be treated with medication. Cataracts are a common age-related condition characterized by clouding of the lens, leading to visual impairment. For early-stage cataracts, oral supplements—such as vitamin C, vitamin B2, and vitamin E—may be considered; however, it is important to note that cataracts progress gradually from the early stage to maturity, and currently no medication has been proven effective in reversing or halting this progression.
In real life—especially among older adults—cataracts are very common in the eyes, significantly impairing quality of life. They cause serious psychological distress to patients and may even prevent them from working or carrying out daily activities normally. So, what should be done for bilateral cataracts?
What to Do for Bilateral Cataracts
Bilateral cataracts can be managed with medication. Senile cataract is a common age-related condition caused by lens opacification leading to visual impairment. In early-stage cataracts, oral medications—such as vitamin C, vitamin B₂, and vitamin E—may be prescribed. Since progression from early to mature cataract is typically slow and gradual, long-term pharmacological treatment may help delay disease progression or even improve vision. Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) is suitable for all types of cataract patients; it is particularly recommended for those with lens dislocation or with mature or hypermature lens nuclei.
The primary causes of cataracts are linked to systemic metabolism, nutritional status, environmental factors, and genetic predisposition. Prolonged, cumulative damage to the lens results from the combined effects of these multiple factors. More commonly encountered direct causes in daily life include aging, chronic sun exposure, smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. These factors contribute to age-related degeneration and opacification of the lens cortex, typically beginning in the peripheral regions and gradually progressing toward the central area.
Regularly limiting time spent reading, writing, or watching television—and spending a few minutes outdoors daily—can also be beneficial. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
