Can Cataract affect children?

Cataracts are often associated with ageing. Most people start getting cataracts around age 40 and symptoms appear as they age. Although very rare, children can get cataracts too. It is either present at the time of their birth or can happen due to some medical conditions.

Cataracts in children can be:

• Unilateral – Affect one eye
• Bilateral – Affect both eyes

First, let us understand what cataracts are.

• What are cataracts?

The clouding of the natural lens of the human eye is known as cataract. Seeing through cloudy lenses leads to blurry, unclear vision. For the eyes to see, the light rays pass through the lens and focus on the retina. With cataract, the eye lens becomes foggy, for which it cannot focus on the light in the same way.

 

• Can cataracts affect children?

Yes, cataracts can affect children. Although it is very rare, some are born with cataracts. They can also develop cataracts at a very young age, which are known as childhood cataracts. 

1. Congenital cataracts: Some children are born with cataracts, or may get them in childhood. This type of cataract mostly happens in both eyes and can affect the child’s vision. 
2. Secondary cataracts: These cataracts form due to some other medical conditions. For instance, other eye problems, diabetes or even due to medicines. 
3. Traumatic cataracts: Some cataracts happen due to eye injuries. A child may get cataracts directly after hurting the eye or can occur many years later.
4. Radiation cataracts: Sometimes a child may get cataracts due to their exposure to some types of radiation.

• What are the causes of cataracts in a child?

Some of the causes of cataracts in a child are:

• Genetic fault inherited from parents
• Certain genetic conditions 
• Infections picked up by the mother during pregnancy
• Eye injury after birth

 

• What are the symptoms of cataracts in children?

Here are a few symptoms of cataracts in children: 

• Misaligned eyes
• A pupil that appears to be white when a flashlight is shined ito it
• Eye movements that cannot be controlled
• Blurry vision
• Trouble seeing
• Seeing a halo around an object

 

• How is cataract treated in children?

Treatment of cataracts in children depends upon the child:

• Age
• Symptoms 
• Health condition
• The severity of the condition

The eye care doctor of the child will decide upon what treatment should be given to them. They may prescribe the child to:

• Wear glasses or contact lenses
• Go through surgery to remove the cataracts

If you are looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have paediatric ophthalmologists and specialists who are committed  to provide best possible care to patients. Our paediatric ophthalmologists deal with eye diseases, vision care and visual development of children.

Here are some eye disorders that our paediatric ophthalmologist and strabismologist treat:

1. Paediatric strabismus
2. Paediatric cataract
3. Amblyopia
4. Adult Strabismus
5. Allergic disorders (red eye)
6. Retinopathy of prematurity
7. Paediatric glaucoma

We offer also offer diagnostic and imaging services. Advanced tests and diagnostic procedures help doctors to evaluate and treat different eye conditions.