Cataracts are a condition in which proteins in the eye clump together. It prevents the lens from transmitting clear visual signals to the retina and then to the brain. blurry vision and cloudiness Cataracts are a common condition and affect 25% of the rural population and 32% of the urban population, respectively. It can occur in one or both eyes, but usually not at the same time. Although cataracts predominantly affect the elderly population But it can also affect children. And it’s called pediatric cataract or pediatric cataract. Pediatric cataracts account for 7.4–15.3 percent of childhood blindness.
Common Myths About Cataracts in Children
This is due to the lack of awareness about cataracts in children and the high risk of developing visual disabilities. It is therefore essential to address myths about this disease and help our children to have better vision.
Read more: Want to improve your child’s vision? This single trick can help their eyes.
Myth 1: Cataracts are layers of cloudiness on the lens.
Fact: Cataracts don’t grow beyond the lens. Rather, it is a permanent change in the eye’s natural focusing lens. during cataract surgery All cloudy lenses are removed and a clear artificial lens is inserted.
Myth 2: Cataracts can be cured with lifestyle changes.
Fact: Cataracts in children can occur for a number of reasons. It’s not possible to prevent or treat cataracts through lifestyle changes. Cataracts require surgical treatment in children. The duration of surgery depends on the age of the child. Grade and severity of cataracts
Myth 3: Only older people get cataracts.
FACT: Although advancing age is a factor in developing cataracts, it is still a factor. But it’s not the only reason. Cataracts can also occur in young children. And it’s called cataracts in children. It may be related to genetic causes or from certain infections in the mother during pregnancy. eye injury, diabetes, dehydration, abnormal glucose metabolism, etc.
Myth 4: Too Much Screen Time or Reading Causes Cataracts
FACT: Prolonged screen time can cause eye fatigue, lack of concentration, or dry eyes, but it doesn’t cause cataracts. Cataracts can cause difficulty reading or concentrating tasks such as sewing or crafts. But these activities do not cause further lens deterioration.
Myth 5: All cataracts can lead to blindness if left untreated.
Fact: Cataracts, left untreated, do not always lead to blindness. However, cataract surgery needs to be done in a timely manner. To avoid blurry vision and amblyopia This is often referred to as lazy eye. Cataracts do not need to be removed entirely right away. But some types of cataracts in the eye don’t need urgent treatment. If it doesn’t cause blurred vision or blurred vision
Read more: Eye Problems in Children: 5 Signs That Your Child Needs Glasses
Congenital cataracts need to be removed as soon as 4-8 weeks, and developmental cataracts need to be treated sooner after the parents notice them. Any cataract in a child under 7 years of age needs immediate treatment. which if not treated promptly will cause permanently poor vision
Myth 6: Cataract surgery is dangerous.
Fact: Cataract surgery is safe and heals quickly without vision problems under normal circumstances. after surgery Vision will begin to improve within a few days. And the blur will fade as the eye recovers and adjusts.
