Cataract side effect free treatment and various treatment methods

The eye is one of the most vital sensory organs of the human body. However, certain conditions can impair normal vision. Cataract is a common eye problem where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. It usually occurs with aging but can also result from other factors. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, types, and remedies for cataract in detail.

বাংলা পোস্ট

The YouTube playlist below provides evidence of successful treatment of several Ophthalmological disorders including Cataract

What is Cataract?

A cataract is a condition where the clear lens of the eye gradually becomes cloudy. This affects vision and can worsen over time.

How does Cataract happen?

The proteins and fibers in the lens of the eye undergo changes or breakdown over time. This leads to a loss of clarity in the lens, causing blurry vision.

How many types of Cataract are there?

1. Nuclear Cataract:
   • Occurs in the central part of the lens.
   • Commonly associated with aging.
2. Cortical Cataract:
   • Develops in the outer edges of the lens.
   • Appears as white streaks or spots on the lens.
3. Posterior Subcapsular Cataract:
   • Forms at the back of the lens.
   • More common in diabetic patients or those taking steroids.
4. Congenital Cataract:
   • Present at birth or develops in childhood.
   • Often caused by genetics or infections.
5. Traumatic Cataract:
   • Caused by injury or trauma to the eye.

What are the causes of Cataract?

1. Aging:
   • Natural protein changes in the lens over time.
2. Diabetes:
   • High blood sugar levels can damage the lens.
3. Injury:
   • Trauma to the eye can harm the lens.
4. Genetic Factors:
   • Family history increases the risk of cataracts.
5. UV Radiation:
   • Excessive exposure to the sun’s UV rays affects the lens.
6. Smoking and Alcohol:
   • Increases the risk of developing cataracts.
7. Steroid Medications:
   • Prolonged use of steroids can weaken the lens.

Symptoms of Cataract

Cataract is a common but serious condition that can cause vision loss. Early identification of symptoms and timely treatment can help control this condition effectively.

Symptoms of Cataract:

1. Blurry Vision:
   • Vision becomes cloudy or foggy.
2. Difficulty with Bright Lights:
   • Sensitivity to bright lights or difficulty driving at night.
3. Changes in Color Perception:
   • Colors appear faded or less vibrant.
4. Different Vision in Both Eyes:
   • One eye may perceive vision differently from the other.
5. Frequent Changes in Glasses Prescription:
   • Frequent need to change eyeglasses, with little or no improvement in vision.

Progression of Cataract

1. Early Stage:
   • Slight blurriness or cloudiness in vision begins.
2. Intermediate Stage:
   • Colors and shapes start appearing distorted.
   • Sensitivity to light increases.
3. Advanced Stage:
   • Lens becomes completely opaque.
   • Vision loss can lead to near blindness.

What is the risk of Cataract and Rix factor? 

1. Age:
   • Aging increases the risk of cataract.
2. Diabetes:
   • High blood sugar damages the lens.
3. UV Radiation:
   • Prolonged exposure to sunlight affects the eyes.
4. Smoking:
   • Smoking disrupts the protein structure in the eye.
5. Alcohol:
   • Excessive alcohol consumption can harm the eyes.
6. Family History:
   • Genetics can increase the risk of cataracts.
7. Steroid Medications:
   • Long-term use of steroids.

What to do and avoid if you have Cataract

Do’s:

1. Wear Sunglasses:
   • Protect your eyes from UV rays.
2. Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods:
   • Include Vitamin A, C, and E-rich foods like carrots, spinach, and nuts.
3. Get Regular Eye Check-Ups:
   • Ensure routine eye examinations.
4. Control Diabetes:
   • Manage blood sugar levels.
5. Seek Medical Advice:
   • Visit a doctor immediately if vision problems arise.

Don’ts:

1. Avoid Smoking:
   • Smoking can damage the eyes.
2. Limit Alcohol Consumption:
   • Excessive alcohol increases the risk of cataracts.
3. Do Not Rub Your Eyes:
   • This may cause irritation or infection.
4. Avoid Excessive Sunlight:
   • Do not step out without sunglasses as UV rays harm the eyes.
5. Do Not Self-Medicate:
   • Take medications only as prescribed by a doctor.

What lab tests are required to diagnose Cataract?

Specific tests are required to accurately diagnose cataracts. These tests help assess the internal condition of the eye, vision problems, and the location and severity of the cataract. Below is a list of lab tests used for cataract diagnosis:

Lab Tests for Cataract Diagnosis:

1. Visual Acuity Test:
   • Measures the clarity of vision to determine how blurry or sharp the patient’s sight is.
   • Involves reading a chart to test distance vision.
2. Slit-Lamp Examination:
   • A microscope with a bright light is used to examine the cornea, iris, and lens.
   • Helps detect cloudiness in the lens due to cataracts.
3. Retinal Examination:
   • Eye drops are used to dilate the pupils for a clear view of the retina.
   • A special lens is used to analyze the condition of the retina.
4. Tonometry Test:
   • Measures the pressure inside the eye.
   • High eye pressure (glaucoma) may be associated with cataracts.
5. Corneal Topography:
   • Analyzes the shape and curvature of the cornea.
   • Identifies corneal irregularities that may affect vision.
6. Ultrasound (A-Scan or B-Scan):
   • Performed to evaluate the internal structure of the eye.
   • Useful for planning cataract surgery.
7. Intraocular Lens Power Calculation (ILP):
   • Determines the correct power of the lens to be implanted during cataract surgery.

Why Are Lab Tests Important?

1. To determine the location and severity of the cataract.
2. To ensure the eye is ready for surgery.
3. To identify other eye conditions (e.g., glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy).

What lifestyle should Cataract patients follow?

Cataracts can often be managed and even prevented with a healthy lifestyle and a proper diet. Following good habits and avoiding harmful foods can ensure better eye health and slow the progression of cataracts.

Lifestyle for Cataract Patients:

1. Protect Eyes from UV Rays:
   • Wear sunglasses when outdoors.
   • UV rays are a major cause of cataracts.
2. Quit Smoking:
   • Smoking damages the eyes and increases the risk of cataracts.
3. Reduce Stress:
   • Practice yoga, meditation, or light exercise.
   • Stress negatively impacts eye health.
4. Ensure Adequate Sleep:
   • Get 7-8 hours of sleep daily.
   • Proper rest is crucial for eye health.
5. Control Diabetes:
   • Keep blood sugar levels under control.
   • Diabetes increases the risk of cataracts.
6. Regular Eye Check-Ups:
   • Get your eyes checked every 6 months or annually.

What should Cataract patients eat and avoid?

What to Eat:

1. Vitamin A-Rich Foods:
   • Carrots, sweet potatoes, and red spinach.
   • Protects the lens of the eye.
2. Vitamin C-Rich Foods:
   • Oranges, lemons, strawberries, and amla.
   • Acts as an antioxidant and reduces cataract formation.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
   • Fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, and chia seeds.
   • Reduces inflammation and keeps the lens healthy.
4. Vitamin E-Rich Foods:
   • Almonds, sunflower seeds, and spinach.
   • Prevents cell damage in the eyes.
5. Zinc-Rich Foods:
   • Meat, eggs, and pumpkin seeds.
   • Helps prevent night blindness.
6. Green Vegetables:
   • Spinach, broccoli, and kale.
   • Contains lutein and zeaxanthin which maintain lens health.
7. Water:
   • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
   • Keeps the eyes moist and healthy.

What to Avoid:

1. High-Sugar Foods:
   • Sweets, chocolates, and soft drinks.
   • Increases blood sugar levels and raises cataract risk.
2. Processed Foods:
   • Packaged snacks, fast foods.
   • Contains excessive sodium and chemicals harmful to the eyes.
3. Trans Fats and Saturated Fats:
   • Fried foods, margarine, and processed meats.
   • Increases inflammation and damages eye health.
4. Alcohol:
   • Excessive alcohol weakens the lens of the eye.
5. Smoking:
   • Smoking significantly increases the risk of cataracts.

Exercise and therapy for Cataract

For cataract patients, certain exercises and therapies can help maintain and improve vision. Exercises strengthen eye muscles and enhance blood circulation, while therapies help in reducing eye strain and providing relaxation.

Exercises for Cataract Patients:

1. Palming Exercise:
   • Procedure:
     • Rub your palms together to generate heat and gently place them over your closed eyes.
     • Hold for 5-10 seconds and then remove your palms.
   • Benefits:
     • Relieves eye strain and provides relaxation.
2. Eye Rolling:
   • Procedure:
     • Roll your eyes in a clockwise direction, then counterclockwise.
     • Do this 10 times each way.
   • Benefits:
     • Strengthens eye muscles and increases blood flow.
3. Focus Shifting Exercise:
   • Procedure:
     • Hold your finger close to your nose and focus on it.
     • Slowly move your finger away and keep focusing on it.
     • Repeat 10-15 times daily.
   • Benefits:
     • Improves focusing ability of the eyes.
4. Eye Blinking:
   • Procedure:
     • Blink your eyes every 4-5 seconds.
   • Benefits:
     • Keeps eyes moisturized and reduces strain.
5. Far and Near Focus Exercise:
   • Procedure:
     • Alternate your focus between a distant object and a nearby one.
     • Practice for 5 minutes.
   • Benefits:
     • Enhances the ability to focus on different distances.

Therapies for Cataract Patients:

1. Warm and Cold Compress Therapy:
   • Procedure:
     • Soak a towel in warm water and place it over your closed eyes.
     • After 2-3 minutes, switch to a towel soaked in cold water.
   • Benefits:
     • Improves blood circulation in the eyes and provides relaxation.
2. Light Therapy:
   • Involves using specific light to enhance eye sensitivity.
   • Reduces eye fatigue effectively.
3. Reflexology:
   • Stimulating specific pressure points on the feet to improve eye blood flow.
4. Aromatherapy:
   • Uses essential oils like lavender or sandalwood to reduce stress.
   • Helps in relaxing the eyes.
5. Yoga:
   • Particularly, pranayama and meditation are helpful in reducing eye strain and promoting relaxation.
   • Examples: Anulom-Vilom, Bhramari Pranayama.

Allopathic treatment for Cataract

Allopathic treatment for cataract is a modern and scientifically proven method for managing cataracts. It is primarily divided into medication and surgical interventions. While special glasses or eye drops are used in the early stages, surgery is the most effective approach for advanced stages.

Allopathic Treatment Methods for Cataract:

1. Glasses or Contact Lenses:
   • In the early stages, when the cataract is not severe, glasses or contact lenses can help improve vision.
   • This temporarily reduces blurred vision.
2. Eye Drops:
   • Antioxidant-rich eye drops may help slow the progression of cataracts in some cases.
   • Used in early stages but cannot completely remove the cataract.
3. Surgery:
   • In advanced stages, surgery is the only effective solution for removing cataracts.
   • Two main surgical methods are:
4. a. Phacoemulsification:
   • A modern and commonly used technique.
   • Ultrasound is used to break the cloudy lens through a small incision, and a new artificial lens is implanted.
   • This method ensures quicker recovery for the patient.
5. b. Extra-Capsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE):
   • Used for removing larger cataracts.
   • The large portion of the lens is removed, and a new lens is implanted.
6. Intraocular Lens (IOL):
   • After cataract removal, an artificial lens is implanted.
   • Helps in long-term vision restoration.
7. Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery:
   • Cataracts are removed using advanced laser technology.
   • This method is highly precise and safe.

Advantages of Allopathic Treatment:

1. Quick and effective results.
2. Complete restoration of vision.
3. Minimal complications with the use of modern technology.

Precautions:

1. Avoid heavy work for a few days after surgery.
2. Do not rub your eyes or allow water to come into contact with them.
3. Regularly use prescribed eye drops and medications.
4. Schedule regular follow-up eye exams.

Homeopathic treatment for Cataract

Homeopathic treatment for cataract is a natural and holistic approach. It aims to restore the internal balance of the body and preserve vision. Although surgery is the most effective method for completely removing cataracts, homeopathy can be useful in the early stages or in slowing down the progression of the cataract.

Homeopathic Remedies for Cataract:

1. Calcarea Fluorica:
   • Effective for early-stage cataract patients.
   • Helps prevent gradual clouding of the lens and blurry vision.
2. Silicea:
   • Used to slow down lens opacification.
   • Relieves long-term strain and fatigue in the eyes.
3. Cannabis Sativa:
   • Beneficial for patients experiencing glare or severe haziness in the eyes.
4. Causticum:
   • Used for dryness and gradual loss of vision.
   • Helps in slowing the progression of cataracts.
5. Natrum Muriaticum:
   • Effective for patients who experience discomfort in bright sunlight or glare.
6. Phosphorus:
   • Beneficial for weak retinas and hazy vision in bright light.
7. Euphrasia (Eye Bright):
   • Reduces eye inflammation and discomfort.
   • Supports clear vision and eye health.

Benefits of Homeopathic Treatment:

1. Natural and Safe:
   • The treatment is natural and free of side effects.
2. Slows Cataract Progression:
   • Helps slow down the progression of cataracts in the early stages.
3. Boosts Immune System:
   • Improves the internal balance of the body and enhances immunity.
4. Improves Overall Health:
   • Works on the entire system, not just the eyes.

Precautions:

1. Do Not Self-Medicate:
   • Consult an experienced homeopathic practitioner to determine the correct remedy and dosage.
2. Do Not Delay Surgery If Needed:
   • For advanced stages of cataract, surgery is the most effective solution.
3. Regular Eye Check-Ups:
   • Maintain regular follow-ups with both your eye doctor and homeopathic practitioner to monitor the condition.

Herbal treatment for Cataract

Herbal treatment for cataract is a natural and effective approach in the early stages of the condition. Herbal remedies can help reduce lens opacity, improve blood circulation, and decrease inflammation. However, for advanced stages, surgery is necessary.

Herbal Remedies for Cataract:

1. Carrot Juice:
   • Method: Drink one glass of fresh carrot juice every morning.
   • Benefits: Rich in Vitamin A, it helps reduce lens opacity and maintains eye health.
2. Basil Leaves:
   • Method: Consume basil leaf juice or basil tea daily.
   • Benefits: Acts as an antioxidant and helps reduce inflammation in the eyes.
3. Turmeric:
   • Method: Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm milk and drink daily.
   • Benefits: Curcumin in turmeric reduces inflammation and prevents lens damage.
4. Indian Gooseberry (Amla):
   • Method: Drink amla juice or take it in powdered form every morning.
   • Benefits: Rich in Vitamin C, it aids in repairing eye tissues.
5. Aloe Vera:
   • Method: Drink aloe vera juice daily.
   • Benefits: Cools the eyes and supports improved vision.
6. Onion Juice:
   • Method: Mix onion juice with honey and consume once a day.
   • Benefits: Antioxidants in onions help prevent eye damage.
7. Green Tea:
   • Method: Drink green tea twice daily.
   • Benefits: Polyphenols in green tea help reduce lens opacity.
8. Almonds and Walnuts:
   • Method: Eat 5-7 soaked almonds and walnuts every morning.
   • Benefits: Rich in Vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids, they improve eye health.

Herbal Therapies for Cataract:

1. Warm and Cold Pack:
   • Method: Place a warm towel on your eyes, followed by a cold towel.
   • Benefits: Increases blood circulation in the eyes and provides relief.
2. Herbal Eye Wash:
   • Method: Use triphala powder soaked in water as an eye wash.
   • Benefits: Cleans the eyes and reduces inflammation.
3. Meditation and Yoga:
   • Examples: Pranayama and Anulom-Vilom breathing exercises.
   • Benefits: Reduces stress and improves blood circulation to the eye muscles.

Precautions:

1. Do not use herbal remedies without consulting a doctor.
2. For advanced cataracts, surgery is the only solution.
3. Discontinue any herbal remedy immediately if it causes an allergic reaction.

What will be the cooking materials and environment in patients with Cataract?

For cataract patients, incorporating nutritious and healthy ingredients into the diet is crucial. The cooking setup and environment should be designed to support their vision health and slow the progression of cataracts.

Cooking Ingredients for Cataract Patients:

1. Vitamin A-Rich Foods:
   • Carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin.
   • Helps protect the lens and improve vision.
2. Vitamin C-Rich Ingredients:
   • Oranges, lemons, papayas, and amla.
   • Prevents cellular damage and slows cataract progression.
3. Vitamin E-Rich Foods:
   • Almonds, sunflower seeds, and spinach.
   • Acts as an antioxidant and protects eye tissues.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
   • Salmon, sardines, walnuts, and chia seeds.
   • Reduces inflammation and promotes eye health.
5. Green Vegetables:
   • Broccoli, spinach, kale.
   • Rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which help maintain lens health.
6. Low-Sugar Foods:
   • Brown rice, oats.
   • Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
7. Natural Oils:
   • Coconut oil, olive oil.
   • Provides nutrition and serves as a healthy cooking alternative.

Cooking Environment for Cataract Patients:

1. Clean and Hygienic Kitchen:
   • Keep all utensils and cooking tools clean before and after use.
   • Ensure a contamination-free cooking area.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   • Opt for organic, chemical-free, and fresh vegetables and fruits.
3. Minimal Oil and Spices:
   • Avoid deep-fried and overly spicy dishes.
   • Prepare steamed, boiled, or grilled meals.
4. Proper Lighting and Ventilation:
   • Ensure the kitchen is well-lit and properly ventilated.
5. Use Safe Utensils:
   • Use stainless steel, glass, or ceramic utensils.
   • Avoid plastic or chemically treated cookware.
6. Proper Food Storage:
   • Cool cooked food quickly and store it in the refrigerator.

How about skin creams, lotions, oils and soaps for Cataract patients?

For cataract patients, maintaining skin health is important, as overall body wellness can indirectly impact eye health. Skin care products should be gentle, chemical-free, and non-allergenic.

Skin Creams:

1. Vitamin E-Enriched Cream:
   • Helps retain skin moisture and provides antioxidant protection.
   • Example: Creams enriched with avocado oil or almond extracts.
2. Aloe Vera Gel Cream:
   • Soothes inflammation and keeps the skin cool.
   • Ideal for sensitive skin as it is natural and chemical-free.
3. Hypoallergenic Cream:
   • Prevents allergic reactions.
   • Reduces irritation or discomfort on the skin.

Lotions:

1. Oatmeal Lotion:
   • Softens the skin and reduces inflammation.
   • Especially effective for dry skin.
2. Sunscreen Lotion:
   • Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
   • Protects the skin and eyes from harmful UV rays.
3. Calamine Lotion:
   • Helps reduce itching and redness on the skin.

Oils:

1. Coconut Oil:
   • Keeps the skin hydrated and maintains its natural smoothness.
2. Jojoba Oil:
   • Absorbs quickly into the skin and acts as a natural moisturizer.
3. Lavender Oil:
   • Reduces skin inflammation and irritation.
   • Provides a calming effect on the mind.
4. Olive Oil:
   • Nourishes the skin and retains its moisture.

Soaps:

1. Glycerin Soap:
   • Gentle and prevents dryness in the skin.
2. Fragrance-Free Soap:
   • Free from harsh chemicals and suitable for sensitive skin.
3. Anti-Bacterial Soap:
   • Keeps the skin clean and reduces the risk of infection.
4. Oatmeal or Sandalwood Soap:
   • Maintains skin softness and is enriched with natural ingredients.

Precautions:

1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
   • Stay away from products containing parabens, sulfates, and alcohol.
2. Patch Test:
   • Always perform a patch test before using new products.
3. Consult a Doctor:
   • If irritation or infection occurs on the skin, seek medical advice promptly.

What will be Aromatherapy cosmetic and aromatherapy treatment for Cataract patients?

Aromatherapy is a natural and effective method that helps cataract patients reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and promote relaxation. Aromatherapy cosmetics and treatments use essential oils to provide physical and mental comfort and support overall eye health.

Aromatherapy Cosmetics for Cataract Patients:

1. Lavender Oil Moisturizer:
   • Benefits: Keeps skin hydrated and helps reduce stress.
   • Usage: Apply daily to the skin.
2. Sandalwood Oil Facewash:
   • Benefits: Cleanses the skin and refreshes the area around the eyes.
   • Usage: Use twice a day.
3. Tea Tree Oil Cream:
   • Benefits: Reduces inflammation and prevents skin infections.
   • Usage: Apply to affected areas for irritation or skin issues.
4. Aloe Vera and Lemon Oil Lotion:
   • Benefits: Protects the skin and provides a cooling sensation.
5. Green Tea Essential Oil Soap:
   • Benefits: Removes impurities from the skin and provides natural protection.

Aromatherapy Treatments for Cataract Patients:

1. Lavender Diffuser Therapy:
   • Benefits: Relieves stress and improves sleep quality.
   • Usage: Add lavender oil to a diffuser and use it at night.
2. Tea Tree Oil Massage:
   • Benefits: Improves blood circulation around the eyes and reduces fatigue.
   • Usage: Mix tea tree oil with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil) and gently massage around the eyes.
3. Eucalyptus Steam Therapy:
   • Benefits: Clears respiratory pathways and aids in body detoxification.
   • Usage: Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to hot water and inhale the steam.
4. Lemongrass Oil Relaxation Therapy:
   • Benefits: Relieves eye fatigue and refreshes the mind.
   • Usage: Add a few drops to your pillow at bedtime.
5. Aromatherapy Bath:
   • Benefits: Relaxes the body and improves blood circulation.
   • Usage: Add a few drops of rosemary or lavender oil to your bathwater.

Precautions:

1. Do Not Apply Directly to Skin:
   • Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before use.
2. Test for Allergies:
   • Perform a patch test before using any new oil.
3. Consult a Doctor:
   • Seek medical advice if you have skin or eye sensitivity issues.

A few famous Cataract-related journals and web links

Several renowned journals focus on cataract research, providing comprehensive insights into the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of the condition. Below is a list of some important journals along with their web links:

Famous Journals:

1. Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (JCRS):
   • Features research articles on cataracts and advanced technologies for vision improvement.
   • Web Link: Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
2. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (IOVS):
   • Publishes research on the causes and treatments of cataracts.
   • Web Link: IOVS
3. American Journal of Ophthalmology (AJO):
   • Covers eye diseases with a focus on innovations in cataract treatment.
   • Web Link: American Journal of Ophthalmology
4. Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology:
   • Discusses modern surgical techniques and outcomes for cataract removal.
   • Web Link: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology
5. Ophthalmology Journal:
   • Provides updates on the latest technologies and medications for diagnosing and treating cataracts.
   • Web Link: Ophthalmology Journal

Conclusion

Cataracts can lead to blindness if not treated in time. However, with proper diagnosis and timely treatment, it is completely curable. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular eye check-ups can help prevent this condition.