Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss worldwide. Despite modern advances in ophthalmology, there are still many myths surrounding this condition, which can lead to a loss of precious time and a reduced quality of life.

Specialists of the Department of Microsurgical Treatment of Cataract and Glaucoma, at the  SI The Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of the NAM S of Ukraine, explain what is true and what is merely a common  misconception.

Myth 1. Cataract develops only in older people

Fact: Although age-related cataracts are most common in older people, the condition can also develop at a young age. There are also congenital, traumatic and secondary cataracts, which can even occur in children and young people.

Myth 2. If a cataract is not painful, treatment is unnecessary

Fact: Cataract is typically painless. Its main manifestation is a gradual decline in visual acuity, which makes reading, driving, working and daily living  more difficult.

Myth 3. Cataract can be cured with eye drops or vitamins

Fact: At present, surgery is the only effective treatment for cataract. No eye drops, vitamins, or dietary supplements have been proven capable of reversing or eliminating lens opacity.

Myth 4. Eyeglasses can cure cataract

Fact: Eyeglasses may temporarily improve visual function during the early stages of cataract but do not address the underlying cause of the condition..

Myth 5. Cataract can resolve on it’s  own

Fact: Cataract does not disappear without treatment. The condition gradually progresses.

Myth 6. You need to wait until the cataract ‘matures’

Fact: Current ophthalmology no longer follows this approach. Cataract surgery is recommended once visual impairment begins to adversely affect the patient's quality of life, professional activities, or daily functioning.

Myth 7. Cataract surgery is very dangerous

Fact: Contemporary cataract surgery is one of the most effective and safest procedures in ophthalmology. It is performed using advanced surgical technologies, is characterised by a rapid post-operative recovery.

Myth 8. Cataract returns after surgery

Fact: Once a cataract has been removed, it does not return. If vision deteriorates again after surgery, this may be due to other eye conditions or changes in the posterior lens capsule, which can be successfully treated using modern methods.

Myth 9. If one eye sees well, the other does not need to be examined

Fact: The two eyes may be affected differently. Ocular diseases often develop in only one eye or progress at different rates in each eye.  Therefore, regular ophthalmic examinations of both eyes are essential.

Myth 10. Cataract is caused only by aging

Fact: In addition to age-related changes, cataract development may be associated with diabetes mellitus, ocular trauma, prolonged use of certain medication, autoimmune diseases, hereditary factors, and other medical conditions.

Do Not Delay Taking Care of Your Vision

If you notice blurred vision, cloudy or hazy vision, increasing difficulty with reading, or problems while driving, do not postpone an examination by an ophthalmologist.

Specialists of the Department of Microsurgical Treatment of Cataract and Glaucoma, at the SI The Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of the NAM S of Ukraine, provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and state-of-the-art surgical treatment of cataract using the latest technologies.

Timely consultation with an ophthalmologist is the key to preserving good vision and maintaining a high quality of life.