According to Master of Science, Doctor Luong Thi Anh Thu, from the High-Tech Eye Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, cataracts are primarily linked to the aging process, where proteins in the lens change and clump together, reducing the transparency of this structure. Beyond aging, factors such as prolonged sun exposure, smoking, alcohol consumption, chronic diseases, a history of eye trauma, or long-term use of certain medications can also accelerate cataract development.

Cataracts in older adults often develop slowly and are painless, making them easy to overlook for extended periods. Patients may experience progressively blurry vision, duller colors, glare when exposed to sunlight, or difficulty seeing in low-light conditions, especially at night. In some cases, double vision may occur due to the gradual opacification of parts of the lens.

Although not directly life-threatening, cataracts in older adults still pose many potential complications that significantly impact vision and quality of life. As the lens becomes progressively opaque, vision loss is the most common consequence, making it difficult for patients to read books, watch television, or perform daily activities. Peripheral opacification can also narrow the field of vision, limiting the ability to observe surrounding space and increasing the risk of collisions when moving.

Changes in lens transparency make it difficult for the eyes to adapt to light, especially when transitioning between bright and dark environments, leading to increased glare, light sensitivity, and prolonged discomfort. Cataracts can obscure fundus lesions or delay the detection of more serious conditions such as retinal detachment, retinal vein occlusion, or macular degeneration, thereby having long-term effects on vision if not monitored and treated promptly.

Doctor Thu advises older adults not to be complacent about prolonged vision loss. Regular eye examinations help detect cataracts early, assess the extent of their impact, and provide appropriate treatment, thereby limiting complications.

Thu Giang