Cataract Assessment

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What Are Cataracts?

As people age, the proteins in the lens of their eye can break down and clump together, forming a cloudy film.

Having cataracts means that the eye's normally clear lens has become cloudy or dense, preventing sufficient light from entering the eye. This reduction in light may result in blurred or hazy vision, making everyday tasks more challenging.

Cataracts develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes. In fact, this condition is the most common reversible cause of blindness in older people. In Singapore, over 80% of people aged 60 and above have a significant cataract.

At Lumin Eye Specialists, our dedicated team of ophthalmologists are experienced in cataract assessment and treatment (surgical removal of the cataract).

Cataract Assessment

Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts

Cataracts often cause vision changes, such as:

  • Cloudy, fuzzy, or foggy vision – As the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, it can cause vision to appear blurry or hazy
  • Glares and haloes – Bright lights appear intense or surrounded by rings, especially in low-light conditions
  • Double vision – Cataracts can cause double vision in one eye, making objects appear distorted or blurred
  • Poor night vision – Cataracts reduce the amount of light that reaches the retina, making it difficult to distinguish objects in the dark
  • Faded colours – Colours may appear less vibrant or dull as cataracts develop

Causes & Risk Factors for Cataracts

Various factors may increase the risk of one developing cataracts, such as:

  • Ageing – Cataracts gradually develop as people get older, especially after the age of 40
  • Diabetes – People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing cataracts
  • Family history of cataracts – Cataracts may have a hereditary factor
  • Excessive sun and UV exposure – Excessive exposure to UV can increase the risk of cataracts
  • Smoking – Smoking can damage the lens of the eye and speed up the development of cataracts
  • Previous eye injury – A previous eye injury can damage the lens of the eye and increase the risk of cataracts
  • Previous eye surgery – Previous eye surgery can cause trauma or inflammation that affect the lens, increasing the chance of cataract formation
  • Steroid medications – Prolonged use of steroid medications can interfere with the normal metabolic processes of the lens, leading to cataract development.
  • Eye diseases – Conditions such as glaucoma, thyroid eye disease, or retinitis pigmentosa can contribute to cataract formation due to their impact on the eye’s internal structures

Different Types Of Cataracts

Cataracts may be classified into different types depending on where they develop in the lens. Types of cataracts based on location include:

  • Nuclear Cataracts

    – This is the most common type that forms in the centre (nucleus) of the lens. The lens gradually hardens and becomes yellow or brown, compromising the eye’s ability to focus light properly.

  • Cortical Cataracts

    – These cataracts develop in the outer (cortex) layer of the lens. They are often linked to ageing but can be influenced by other factors like diabetes.

  • Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts

    – These form at the back of the lens, often causing glare and haloes around lights. They tend to progress faster than other types of cataracts.

Cataracts may also be classified based on their underlying causes. Common types include:

  • Congenital Cataracts

    – This type of cataract is present at birth d u e to infections, trauma, or metabolic disorders during pregnancy. They can also de v elop during child hood.

  • Traumatic Cataracts

    – These develop as a result of an injury to the eye. They can occur after blunt trauma, electric shock, or chemical burns.

  • Radiation-induced Cataracts

    – These cataracts result from exposure to ionising radiation. This includes radiation from medical treatments and occupational exposure.

What Is a Cataract Assessment Test?

A cataract assessment test is performed by an ophthalmologist to diagnose and assess the severity of cataracts. It involves a series of tests to evaluate the health of the lens, surrounding structures, and overall vision. While cataracts commonly affect older adults, younger individuals can also be affected. Those who are experiencing symptoms should consider getting evaluated.

If you or an elderly family member you know are showing signs of cataracts, it is recommended to get a comprehensive cataract assessment, so that you can:

  • identify whether your vision is affected by a cataract
  • detect cataract development (type and severity)
  • determine appropriate treatment (what type of cataract surgery, and when)

Early cataract detection is crucial for the prevention of further vision loss and a potentially less complicated treatment.

Types of Cataract Screening Tests

Cataract assessment may involve any of the following:

  • Visual Acuity Test

    – This uses a chart to test how well one can read a range of letters in decreasing sizes

  • Dilated Retinal Examination

    – Eye drops are used to dilate one’s pupils, allowing the doctor to examine the retina and the lens of the eye

  • Slit-Lamp Examination

    – This allows the doctor to clearly see the structures of both the front and back of the eye and detect any abnormalities

  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

    – This is used to monitor the size and density of a cataract to determine the need for surgery

  • Glare and Contrast Sensitivity Tests

    – These tests assess how cataracts affect vision under different lighting conditions

  • Biometry

    – This takes measurements of the eye to determine which lenses are suitable for your eye

What Will Happen After Cataract Assessment?

After a thorough eye examination, the doctor will discuss the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

If cataracts are detected, the doctor will explain the severity of your cataracts and how they can potentially affect your vision. The doctor may recommend cataract surgery as it is the most effective and established mode of treatment. It removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a new, artificial one. They will also discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery. Rest assured, there will be no pain or anxiety during the procedure as we use local anaesthesia and provide sedation to keep you comfortable.

We perform routine cataract surgeries as day surgery cases without the need to stay overnight in the hospital. Overall, cataract surgery is a highly successful operation, especially in the hands of experienced cataract surgeons.

Early detection and evaluation of cataracts are crucial for preserving your vision.

Call 6266 2088 to schedule a consultation with our cataract surgeon for thorough evaluation today.

FAQs About Cataracts

Can cataracts be treated with medications?

What do I do if I have early cataracts?

When to have cataract surgery?

How can I prevent cataracts?

Send us an enquiry

For a detailed eye assessment or personalised recommendations on treatment, reach out to us - We look forward to bringing back the light into your life.

Ophthalmologist - Lumin Eye Specialist Clinic Singapore

Lumin Eye Specialists

Contact Information

6A Napier Road, Gleneagles Hospital#02-36A/B, (Hospital Annexe)Singapore 258500

Tel : +65 6266 2088
Fax : +65 6266 0288
WhatsApp : +65 8020 1008
Email : enquiry@lumineye.sg

Operating Hours

Monday to Friday : 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Saturday : 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Sun/Public Holidays : Closed
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