A second hard look at cataracts

MANILA, Philippines - Blurry vision, fading colors, glare sensitivity are just some of the “minor” eye irritations people tend to complain about but oftentimes neglect.  Some simply dismiss them as just a part of growing old. What most people don’t know is that these symptoms may mean that they are suffering from cataracts.

Cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens.  This is due to protein formation in the eye’s crystalline lens, which blocks the transmission of light, thus causing poor eyesight.  In mild cases, a person’s eyesight is blurred but as cataracts progress, blindness follows as the eyes are completely blocked because what we see are whitish opacifications. 

“Cataracts can affect everyone.  It can happen to anyone at any age for various reasons,” says Dr. Carl Chua, an ophthalmologist/glaucoma specialist and cataract surgeon at Healthway Medical. “What is important is that people are aware of what to watch out for and, more importantly, see their doctors so it is diagnosed and monitored regularly.”

But while a regular checkup and diagnosis are important, a change in one’s lifestyle is also vital, like quitting smoking, wearing protective sunglasses to avoid the ultraviolet rays of the sun, and eating a well-balanced diet. “It is also important to consider regulating one’s sugar intake as this might hasten cataract progression, especially in diabetics.  Eating food rich in antioxidants like fruits and vegetables, and taking food rich in vitamins C and E may also help,” says Dr. Carl Chua.

In line with this, Healthway Medical recently offered free cataract screening in all its clinics in line with Sight Saving Month last month. “This is in keeping with our mission of enjoining the public to live a healthy lifestyle every day,” says Carmie de Leon, Healthway vice president for sales and marketing.

For those who are already suffering from cataracts, Healthway is also offering phacoemulsification cataract surgery, an advanced form of cataract surgery which is done on an out-patient basis. This procedure employs topical eye drop anesthesia whereby no needles or injections are used.  Surgery usually takes only 10 minutes. The visual rehabilitation is likewise quick, as patients can resume their normal daily activities the day after surgery.

Healthway Medical clinics are located at Market! Market! in Taguig, Robinsons Place in Manila, Shangri-La Plaza mall in Mandaluyong, Alabang Town Center in Alabang, Festival Supermall in Muntinlupa, and SM North-The Block. 

For more details on cataract screening, call Queenie Corteza at 09275253251 or Healthway at 751- 4929 (HWAY).  Log on to www.healthway.com.ph. or www.cataractphil.com.