Cataracts and glaucoma are both eye illnesses that typically afflict the elderly, however, they are not always related or caused by the same factors. While it’s true that some causes of cataracts can also lead to glaucoma, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, in many cases, one condition can be present without the other. There are a few parallels between the two illnesses that you should be aware of.
Clouding of the lens of the eye, known medically as a cataract, can cause severe vision impairment if not corrected. Cataracts are most common in people over the age of 65 and are more likely to occur in people with diabetes, who have high blood pressure or heart problems, or who smoke cigarettes. Symptoms include cloudy or blurry vision, changes in colors (colors look duller), reduced ability to see objects near and far, sensitivity to light (photosensitivity), and double vision.
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve which sends information from the retina to the brain. Most people with glaucoma are unaware they have it because there are no symptoms, but if not treated early on, it can cause irreparable damage and blindness. If you notice any changes in your eyesight, such as hazy or dim vision or difficulty reading, visit your doctor straight away.
The primary distinction between cataracts and glaucoma is that cataracts are a clouding of the eye lens, whereas glaucoma is a rise in fluid pressure inside the eye that damages the optic nerve and can lead to blindness if left untreated. Cataract surgery includes removing the hazy lens and replacing it with a clear prosthetic lens, whereas glaucoma may necessitate procedures to relieve pressure on the optic nerve. Glaucoma is treated with medication, surgical procedures, or laser treatments, whereas cataracts are only treated surgically. Surgeons may cut blood vessels around the cornea or inject medication into the eye as part of the procedure to address diabetes issues.
Although they have some similarities, there are significant differences that distinguish these two disorders. An ophthalmologist can tell you what type of eye problem you have based on symptoms such as light sensitivity, seeing halos around objects, and changes in your ability to perceive colors. The internet is an excellent way to obtain information regarding cataracts and glaucoma, but it can be difficult to know what is reliable. Fortunately, there are some helpful websites out there, such as Responsum Health, that act as a conduit between you and the information you want. Many of these platforms also offer more general educational materials to help you better understand the signs and symptoms associated with each disease, so that if you start experiencing problems you know exactly where to go.