Cataracts and glaucoma are the commonest cause of vision loss. Both these can be age-related and are more common in the elderly age group.

Cataract refers to the changes in our natural lens as we get older. The lens becomes opaque and discolored and there is a gradual loss of eyesight. This leads to vision loss

Glaucoma occurs due to damage to the optic nerve and this is gradual and most of the time increased eye pressure is not noticed.

The question always arises – which is worse cataract or glaucoma? Indeed, both lead to vision loss but it is important to note that cataracts are reversible, and glaucoma is not reversible.  Damage is permanent in glaucoma. A cataract is one of the causes of preventable blindness.

Cataracts

In cataracts, the crystalline transparent natural lens of the eye becomes fuzzy due to changes in the lens proteins. This is age-related or due to sun exposure. This is the most common cause of vision impairment in people over the age of 40 years. This can be reversed by surgery. Surgery is advanced with the use of a variety of intraocular lens which offers very good vision.

• – lens cloudy
• – age-related
• – reversible by surgery
• – easy to detect

Glaucoma

In glaucoma, there is damage to the optic nerve and this can be related to aging. There is increased pressure in the eyes due to the decreased outflow of fluid from the eye. This can be a slow process and difficult to detect. The disease does not have any remarkable symptoms and can silently destroy the vision. Hence this is a more serious problem.

• – Optic nerve damage occurs
• – More common in elderly
• – Difficult to detect
• – Usually irreversible

Regular eye check-up beyond the age of 40 years is needed to prevent and identify eye problems. Timely treatment will ensure eyesight is maintained.

Dr. Ramesh Murthy at AXIS EYE CLINIC has nearly 20 years of experience and has trained at the best eye institutes in India and abroad. His vast experience helps him in tackling the most complex cases with ease. He has a pleasant demeanor and is frank and honest in revealing to the patients beforehand what to expect and what the result will be. He is positive, friendly, and always has a determination to do the best for the patient.

Dr. Ramesh Murthy is a renowned eye surgeon and one of the best cataract surgeons of Pune, well-known for his excellent results. He is considered among the best eye specialists in Pune. He is also among the best oculoplastic and best squint surgeons in the city of Pune. He is available at Axis Eye Clinic, Pune which is among the best eye clinics in Pune. The staff at Axis Eye Clinic are well versed with Mediclaim and insurance procedures and are always there to help you.