1. 什麼是白內障手術

白內障手術是一種常見的眼科手術，主要用於移除眼睛內的混濁晶狀體，並用人工晶體取而代之。這項手術普遍適用於隨著年齡增長，視力逐漸減退的長者。透過手術，患者通常能夠顯著改善視力，恢復正常的日常生活。

2. 白內障手術的原因和成因

白內障的成因可以多種多樣，主要有以下幾個因素：

2.1 年齡因素

隨著年齡增長，眼睛內的晶狀體自然老化，導致晶狀體中的蛋白質變質，進而形成白內障。根據研究，過半數60歲以上的成年人都會受到白內障的影響。

2.2 其他健康因素

• 糖尿病：糖尿病患者的白內障發生率明顯較高。
• 高血壓：慢性高血壓也可能增加白內障的風險。
• 類固醇使用：長期使用類固醇藥物可能導致白內障的發展。

3. 白內障手術的流程

3.1 手術前準備

在手術前，醫生可能會進行詳細的眼科檢查，幫助確定手術的必要性和合適性。此外，患者需要遵循一些注意事項，例如：

• 遵醫囑使用眼藥水以幫助控制感染風險。
• 停止使用某些藥物，特別是抗凝血劑。
• 手術當天保持面部清潔，避免化妝品。

3.2 手術過程

白內障手術通常在局部麻醉下進行，過程大約需要20分鐘，包括以下步驟：

1. 醫生首先用微小切口進入眼部。
2. 使用超聲波乳化技術，將混濁的晶狀體粉碎並吸出。
3. 植入適合的人工晶體，完成手術。

3.3 手術後護理

術後護理非常重要，患者需要遵循以下指導：

• 定期滴眼藥水以避免感染。
• 避免用力揉眼及進行劇烈運動。
• 佩戴護目鏡以保護眼睛，尤其在戶外。

4. 白內障手術費用與政府資助

白內障手術的費用因地區及醫療機構而異。在香港，政府提供一些資助計劃，以降低長者患者的經濟負擔。患者可以透過公立醫院或診所獲得經濟實惠的手術選擇，並根據自身需要選擇適合的私人醫療服務。

5. 白內障手術康復時間

5.1 康復期間的注意事項

大多數患者在手術後幾天內會感覺到視力的逐漸恢復，但完全康復通常需要數周時間。患者在此期間應注意以下事項：

• 避免夜間駕駛，直到視力穩定。
• 遵循醫生的復診計劃，定期檢查眼睛。

6. 白內障手術後遺症

6.1 常見後遺症及解決方案

雖然白內障手術一般安全，但仍有可能出現后遺症，例如：

• 後囊膜混濁：手術後數月內，少數患者可能出現視力模糊，需進行激光清除混濁。

7. 長者白內障手術的特殊考量

對於年長患者，醫生會考慮到他們的整體健康狀況，並可能需要進行額外的檢查，以確保手術安全。此類患者還需要遵循特定的術後護理，如減少活動量、遵從藥物治療計劃等。

8. 常見問題與解答

8.1 白內障手術是否安全？

是的，白內障手術被認為是安全的，並且成功率高於95%。大多數患者在手術後均可恢復正常視力。

8.2 手術後多久能恢復視力？

一般情況下，患者在手術後幾天內會感受到視力改善，完全恢復視力的時間可能需要一到兩周。

8.3 患有其他疾病的患者適合手術嗎？

患有糖尿病或高血壓的患者通常也可以安全地進行白內障手術，但需要醫生根據病歷進行充分評估。

FAQ

1. 白內障手術後的視力會變得更糟嗎？

一般來說，手術後視力會改善，但有少數患者可能出現“後囊膜混濁”的情況，這可以通過激光治療輕鬆解決。

2. 白內障手術後需要住院嗎？

不需要，通常患者在手術當天即可回家，無需留院觀察。

白內障是眼睛內原本透明的水晶體變得混濁影響視力的眼疾。患者在看物體時會感覺有一層白霧遮擋，導致看不清眼前事物，這不僅會大大影響生活品質，還會增加跌倒或其他意外發生的風險。雖然現代醫學已經提供了一套有效的治療方案來應對白內障，但白內障預防可以避免患者經歷視力下降和治療過程所帶來的不方便。比起治療，預防白内障是所有眼科醫師都在極力推廣的重要理念。

How to prevent cataracts

Lens opacity is usually caused by aging eyes, and for senile cataracts, we can prevent them by changing some lifestyle habits.

Avoid ultraviolet and blue light

The proteins in the lens absorb blue light from ultraviolet and visible light, so prolonged exposure to sunlight or prolonged staring at electronic devices can overwork the lens and become cloudy, increasing the risk of cataracts. Therefore, you should wear sunglasses in places where the sun is particularly strong, and at the same time pay attention to let your eyes rest properly and avoid playing with your mobile phone all the time.

Eat a healthy diet

EATING FOODS RICH IN ANTIOXIDANTS, SUCH AS FRUITS, VEGETABLES, AND NUTS, CAN HELP MAINTAIN EYE HEALTH. ADEQUATE INTAKE OF VITAMINS A, C, E, AND OTHER NUTRIENTS CAN ALSO HELP PREVENT CATARACTS. IF YOU ARE AT HIGH RISK OF CATARACTS, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU GET A DIET PLAN FROM A DIETITIAN OR OPHTHALMOLOGIST TO REDUCE THE INCIDENCE OF CATARACTS.

Control blood sugar levels

Diabetes is an important factor in the development of cataracts. Therefore, keeping blood sugar levels stable is one of the keys to cataract prevention. Do not consume too much sweets such as desserts and milk tea, and plant starches such as flour and rice, which are converted into glucose in the body, should not be consumed excessively. Diabetics are advised to always check their blood sugar regularly and follow their doctor's advice to maintain good blood sugar levels.

Quit smoking

The adverse effects of smoking on eye health have been extensively studied and proven. Smoking causes oxidation of lens cells, which in turn promotes the formation of cataracts. Experiments have shown that smoking can lead to the slow accumulation of heavy metal impurities in the lenses of the eyes, which in turn increases the risk of cataracts. Compared with non-smokers, smokers are 2~3 times more likely to suffer from cataracts. Therefore, quitting smoking is not only good for your health, but also one of the important measures to reduce the risk of cataracts.

Regular eye exams

Regular eye check-ups can help detect any eye problems early, and it is recommended to have 1~2 eye check-ups per year. Early detection of cataracts can make it easier to treat or surge, reducing its impact on vision.

Cataract prevention and eye supplemental food

In addition to the methods mentioned above, we can also slow down the aging of our eyes through some eye-tonifying foods or cataract diet regimens recommended by professional doctors. If you have vision problems or other health problems that require strict dietary control, you should consult a medical professional about eye care and other related issues.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a nutrient that is very important for eye health. They are found in fish, nuts, and vegetable oils. Studies have shown that getting enough omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of cataracts.

VITAMIN E

VITAMIN E IS A POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANT THAT CAN HELP PROTECT THE EYES FROM FREE RADICAL DAMAGE. NUTS, SEEDS, VEGETABLES AND VEGETABLE OILS ARE ALL EYE-TONIC FOODS RICH IN VITAMIN E.

VITAMIN C

VITAMIN C IS AN ANTIOXIDANT RECOMMENDED BY THE AMERICAN OPTOMETRY ASSOCIATION TO HELP PROTECT THE EYES FROM OXIDATIVE DAMAGE AND MAINTAIN THE HEALTH OF THE BLOOD VESSELS IN THE EYES. EYE-TONIC FOODS RICH IN VITAMIN C INCLUDE CITRUS FRUITS, STRAWBERRIES, KIWIFRUIT, CAULIFLOWER, ETC.

Lutein and zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are important nutrients in the eye and can help protect the eyes from UV rays and free radical damage. Intake of eye-tonic foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, such as leafy vegetables and corn, can help prevent the occurrence of cataracts.

Keeping an eye eye healthy can prevent not only cataracts, but also other eye diseases, ensuring that you have healthy eyes as you age. If you are unfortunate enough to find cataract symptoms, please make an appointment as soon as possible for a detailed examination. Early detection and timely treatment of cataracts can greatly reduce the difficulty of treatment and maximize vision protection.

#預防白內障的方法 #白內障原因 #白內障成因 #如何減緩白內障

Cataract surgery involves minimally invasive removal of the cloudy lens and implantation of an intraocular lens, which takes about 10 to 30 minutes, but post-cataract surgery care takes up to 1 to 2 months.

In addition to following the doctor's instructions for medication, follow-up visits, and maintaining eye hygiene, how should patients take care of themselves to speed up the recovery time after cataract surgery?

How long do I have to rest after cataract surgery?

Modern cataract surgery is minimally invasive, usually with a 0.2 cm wound. Therefore, exactly how long to rest after cataract surgery depends mainly on the individual's vision recovery.

In general, most patients can see clearly by the second day after cataract surgery. With careful care, vision can be fully restored within 1 week to 1 month after cataract surgery. 

However, we generally recommend that patients after cataract surgery use both eyes normally as soon as possible to speed up the recovery time after cataract surgery. Within a few hours of cataract surgery, if you can see clearly, you can do daily activities such as watching TV, using a computer, eating, and showering.

However, cataract surgery should be followed by careful care, medication as recommended by the doctor, eye cleaning, strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. When the eyes are tired, they should rest properly.

Precautions after cataract surgery

Although cataract surgery is considered a minor surgery, neglect of cataract surgery can lead to intraocular infections and even the risk of blindness. Therefore, proper cataract postoperative maintenance is crucial.

1. Follow your doctor's instructions to clean your eyes and avoid scratching your eyes.
2. Avoid collisions, heavy lifting, or strenuous exercise for 1 month after surgery to avoid affecting wound healing or displacement of the intraocular lens.
3. Avoid bending over to wash your hair for 2 weeks after surgery, and avoid splashing sewage in your eyes when showering.
4. Wear an eye mask before going to bed.
5. Wear sunglasses when you go out to prevent light from shining on your eyes.
6. If you have eye discomfort for a long time, such as severe pain, severe redness and swelling, and vision loss, please treat it immediately.

After-effects of cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective treatment, but there may still be some potential sequelae, but there is no need to worry too much, most of the sequelae of cataract surgery are mild or rare, as long as the vision can be restored with careful care or timely treatment after cataract surgery.

Here are some possible cataract surgery sequelae: 

• Seeing flashes or shadows: It's fairly common to feel some flashes or shadows within a few hours or days after cataract surgery, but these symptoms go away in a short period of time and don't cause much concern.

• High intraocular pressure: In some cases, it may cause an increase in intraocular pressure after surgery, which usually disappears after 24 hours. If the intraocular pressure continues to rise, then it may be a problem with residual crystal cortex, inflammation, viscoelastic residue, etc., and you need to seek medical attention immediately.

• Light sensitivity: After surgery, patients may be more sensitive to bright light, so remember to wear sunglasses when you go out. Over time, the eyes will naturally adapt and the symptoms of light sensitivity will lessen.

• Posterior capsule opacity: After surgery, some patients may have blurred vision due to the proliferation of epidermal cells in the posterior capsule surrounding the lens. This condition can be corrected with laser treatment, which can improve the symptoms of the eyes.

• Retinal detachment: If you suddenly see something floating or flashing lights at some point after cataract surgery, making it difficult to see what is in front of you, it is most likely a symptom of retinal detachment, and consult an ophthalmologist immediately for further treatment.

• Floaters: Some patients find black spots in their eyes after cataract surgery, because their vision was too blurry before cataract surgery to detect the presence of floaters. Floaters are one of the symptoms of eye aging, and if there is no sudden increase in black spots, you can ignore it.

Patients should take proper care of cataract surgery and follow up on time, and seek immediate assistance from an ophthalmologist if there are unusual visual changes after cataract surgery.

Cataract Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

According to the World Health Organization, about 39 million people worldwide are blind, of which 51% are caused by cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in the world. The most common cataract is senile cataract, which is usually found to have cataract symptoms in people over 50 years old, while diabetics and deep myopia are more likely to develop cataract symptoms earlier. If the cataract becomes mature, it will bring a series of complications to the patient, such as: glaucoma, uveitis, etc., and even blindness, with serious consequences. Therefore, patients will undergo cataract surgery, treat cataracts with intraocular lenses, and restore clear vision to the eyes through treatment.

What is Cataract?

Cataract is caused by the transparent lens used to focus in the eye becomes cloudy due to old age or disease, and the lens functions like a camera lens, helping the eye to focus accurately, so that the image can be focused on the retina to form a clear image. The lens is made of proteins and has the function of regulating light. When the lens becomes cloudy, the transparency decreases, and light cannot pass through, resulting in decreased vision and cataracts.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

The symptoms of cataract are relatively easy to identify compared with other eye diseases, such as dry eye, and the most noticeable symptoms generally include reduced reading ability, which is mainly caused by blurred vision, and there will be photophobia problems, patients are also prone to glare at night, or symptoms such as loss of color and contrast resolution. The symptoms of cataract can be subdivided into early cataract symptoms and late cataract symptoms:

Initial cataract symptoms

• photophobia
• Monocular diplopia
• Myopia suddenly spiked geometrically
• Presbyopia lightened

Late cataract symptoms

• Vision modeling
• See things glare
• The image color becomes dull

Why do I get cataracts?

aging

The main cause of cataract is due to aging of the eyes due to aging, which is also known as "senile cataract", which is caused by the aging and decline of the lens. In medicine, according to the opacity location of the lens, such cataracts are subdivided into three categories: posterior subcapsular opacity, nuclear opacity, and cortical opacity.

Caused by other diseases

Also known as "secondary cataracts", it is caused by surgery, steroid medications, or other health problems such as glaucoma, diabetes, intraocular inflammation, and high myopia.

Caused by trauma

Trauma is also a cause of cataracts. When the eye has been subjected to strong impact, puncture injury, or has been subjected to high heat, chemical burns, etc., the crystal fibers are misaligned, and lesions such as turbidity and hardening may occur. However, some patients do not develop cataracts immediately, but gradually appear later.

Open surgery to treat cataracts is the only way out

At present, open surgery is the only treatment for cataracts. The cataract surgery process involves removing the cloudy lens and implanting an intraocular lens to treat the cataract and improve vision. Generally, cataract surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and doctors use a microscope in the operating room to remove the originally cloudy lens and implant an intraocular lens suitable for cataract patients using ultrasound emulsification technology. Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, the surgical incision will be relatively thin and stitches will not necessarily be required, so the wound recovery time is relatively short. Cataract surgery is safe and complications are uncommon.

However, since everyone's condition and needs are different, and intraocular lenses are not as easy to replace as glasses, you should understand with your doctor before undergoing cataract surgery, and then choose the cataract intraocular lens that suits you.

Before undergoing cataract surgery, the patient decides which intraocular lens to choose for cataracts. Patients can decide which intraocular lens for cataract treatment can bring the best results for patients based on their overall eye health, such as dry eye, corneal astigmatism or macular health, etc., and finally undergo cataract surgery.

At present, there are three main types of intraocular lenses available for cataract surgery:

• Unifocal intraocular lens

This is a commonly used intraocular lens in cataract patients and is also suitable for all patients. However, this intraocular lens only has a single focal length, and if the single-focal IOL lens implanted with the long-distance viewing function improves farsightedness, it may be necessary to wear reading glasses when performing close activities such as reading or playing sparrows.

• All-round wide view of intraocular lenses

Lengthen the eye focus, solve the shortcomings of the previous multifocal length intraocular lens that can only see far and close things, and fill the mid-distance vision.

• Trifocal intraocular lens

This intraocular lens is suitable for cataract and presbyopia patients, it is a multifunctional intraocular lens with far, medium and near full vision, and after surgery, cataract patients will have less dependence on glasses. However, cataract patients may have visual disturbances such as halos and glare after surgery, so patients may need more time to adapt.

In addition, the new generation of continuous intraocular lenses launched in recent years provides a wide continuous field of view from a distance to a reading distance of 33 cm, eliminating the visual gap existing in trifocal technology and other multifocal technologies, allowing patients to experience continuous high-contrast vision from far to near even under low-light conditions, greatly reducing the dependence of cataract patients on glasses. Its UV light filtering technology also helps to reduce glare and halo intensity when driving at night.

Many patients who undergo cataract surgery to treat cataracts will question the duration of the IOL. In fact, current IOLs are made of biocompatible materials such as acrylic or silicone. This means that they do not react with the human body anaphylaxis. For more than 100 years, no cases of aging intraocular lenses affecting vision have been found. So, don't worry about intraocular lens life. IOLs live longer than anyone can live, and rare IOLs change and need to be replaced.

When should I have cataract surgery?

Because when cataracts become mature and worsen, there is a chance to bring a series of complications to patients, such as glaucoma, uveitis, etc., so early treatment should be received cataract surgery. Moreover, under the current medical practice, patients do not need to wait for the symptoms of cataract complications before surgery. Cataract surgery can be considered when vision gradually deteriorates and vision is insufficient to cope with daily work or daily needs. After the patient's vision loss is detected by the nurse, after examination and discussion with the doctor, the decision can be made when to undergo surgery to treat cataracts.

If you wait until the advanced cataract for surgery, the lens will expand or even dissolve, which will bring a series of complications to the patient, such as glaucoma, uveitis, which can lead to irreversible blindness, and advanced cataract surgery is more difficult and vision recovery is slower.

Care after cataract surgery

Patients may have glasses, sunglasses or eye protection for one week after cataract surgery. Do not wipe your eyes with your hands to avoid inflammation of the wound. The eye area can also be gently rubbed with disinfectant cotton or clean paper towels to avoid infection. Normal movement after routine cataract surgery without bed rest. However, complex cases such as trauma and concomitant glaucoma may require restriction of activities.

In terms of diet, abstinence is not required after surgery, but patients should reduce their intake of irritating foods. For people with allergies, foods with high protein content should also be avoided.

Do not swim, do strenuous exercise, and avoid lifting or carrying heavy objects over 30 pounds for one month after surgery. On weekdays, when the head is bent low, be careful to avoid collisions.