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Understanding Cataracts and Their Impact
Oct 24, 2024
Cataracts Lecture Notes
Introduction
Cataracts: Eye disorder where the lens loses transparency and becomes cloudy.
Affects light transmission to the retina, causing cloudy vision.
Normal Vision vs. Cataract Vision
Normal Vision
: Light focuses on the retina for a clear image.
Cataract Vision
: Light scatters due to a cloudy lens, resulting in blurred and less vibrant images.
Prevalence
Common in older adults.
Over half of Americans aged 80+ have or had cataracts.
Pathophysiology
Eye Structure:
Light enters through the cornea, passes through the pupil, and hits the lens.
The lens is supported by ciliary muscles, aiding in focusing.
Lens Clarity:
Clear due to crystalline proteins.
Cataracts occur when proteins clump, clouding the lens.
Causes
Age:
Senile cataracts due to aging.
Congenital:
Infections like rubella during pregnancy.
Trauma and Diseases:
Diabetes, unprotected sunlight exposure.
Medications:
Corticosteroids.
Lifestyle:
Smoking, alcohol, family history.
Symptoms
Mnemonic "CATS":
C
: Cloudy/blurred vision, double vision.
A
: Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription.
T
: Toned down colors.
S
: Sensitivity to glare/light, halos around lights.
Diagnosis
Visual Acuity Test:
Using Snellen chart.
Slit Lamp Examination:
Enlarges view of eye structures.
Dilated Eye Exam:
Allows detailed optic nerve assessment.
Treatment
Monitoring:
Regular eye exams, updated prescriptions, anti-glare glasses.
Surgery:
Phacoemulsification - removal of cloudy lens and insertion of intraocular lens.
Minimal incision, no sutures.
Nursing Role
Prevention
Education: "LENS" Mnemonic:
L
: Layers of protection, sunglasses, hats.
E
: Eat fruits/vegetables for nutrients.
N
: No smoking, limit alcohol.
S
: Schedule regular eye exams.
Pre-Surgery
Educate on procedure, outpatient nature, need for driver.
Pre-surgery eye drops: Anti-inflammatories, antibiotics.
Medication Review:
Alert doctor about alpha-blockers like tamsilosin.
Post-Surgery Care
Positioning:
On non-surgical side.
Protection:
Eye shields/glasses.
Activity Restrictions:
No heavy lifting, bending, or swimming.
Pain Management:
Minimal pain expected.
Complication Signs:
Severe pain, vision decrease, flashes, or abnormal drainage.
Conclusion
Cataract surgery is generally successful in restoring vision.
Regular appointments are crucial for monitoring recovery.
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