Cataracts Treatment in Singapore: Symptoms,Causes and Solutions
Distinguishing Cataract Vision from Normal Eyesight
Guide to Cataracts and Treatment in Singapore
Cataracts are a common eye condition affecting many individuals as they age, leading to cloudy vision and, if left untreated, potential blindness. At Asia Pacific Eye Centre, we offer treatments to restore clear vision and enhance quality of life.
What Are Cataracts?
In a normal eye, the natural lens is clear. This clarity allows light rays to pass through and helps us to see clearly. When someone starts developing cataracts, their natural lens becomes cloudy.
That being said, as cataracts progress, vision becomes increasingly worse. As a result, daily activities such as watching television or reading newspapers may become challenging.
When deteriorating vision begins to affect one’s daily life, a cataract surgery may be recommended. This surgery is a 20-min procedure that removes the cloudy lens and also helps to correct myopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
Different Types of Cataracts
There are three main types of cataracts. A person may develop one or more types.
● Nuclear (or nuclear sclerotic) cataracts: This type of cataracts form deep in the nucleus (central portion) of the lens. Oftentimes, they are caused by aging.
●Subcapsular cataracts: This cataract type forms beneath the lens capsule. They can be caused by steroid medication use or diabetes.
● Cortical cataracts: Cortical cataracts form in the lens cortex. They appear white and wedge-like.
Cataracts Symptoms
Cataracts symptoms include the following:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Seeing glares and haloes, especially in dimly lit areas
- Colours becoming more dull or less vibrant
- Sensitivity to light
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
What Causes Cataracts?
The most common cause of cataracts is aging. Other, much less common, causes include genetic predisposition, certain medical conditions such as diabetes, usage of certain medications, damage from UV rays, and previous trauma to the eye.
In Singapore, 78.6% Of People Over 60 Years Old Have Cataracts
‘In Singapore, the percentage of elderly patients affected by cataracts is about 78.6%. The number of people affected increases as they get older (It affects 63.6% of people between 60 and 64 years, and 94.6% of people 75 years and older.)’ [1]
If you are in a higher risk group for cataracts in Singapore, it is best to schedule regular eye screenings (every 6 to 12 months).
As per current regulations, cataract surgery is Medisave-claimable for an amount of up to $2,450 per eye. If your insurance policy covers cataract surgery, you may be able to claim the full amount. Check with your insurance agent for more details.
When Should I go For Surgery?
In general, it is recommended that one goes for surgery when cataracts begin to cause inconvenience in one’s daily life. If you have been noticing increasingly worse symptoms, it is best to consult an eye specialist.
Do not wait too long to seek treatment. At the hypermature stage, cataracts become harder and more difficult to remove. As such, having surgery at a hypermature stage poses higher risks.
Is There Any Way To Prevent Cataracts?
There is no scientifically-proven way of preventing cataracts.
Currently, surgery is the only treatment option.
If you are interested in learning more about the surgery, head over to our cataract surgery page. There you can find more in-depth information regarding topics such as recovery time, surgical process, and choice of intraocular lens implants (IOLs).
Why Choose Asia Pacific Eye Centre for Cataract Treatment?
- Experienced specialists dedicated to personalised care
- Optimal facilities and surgical techniques
- Optimal patient outcomes
Cataract Screening & Testing
Cataract/Glaucoma/Age-Related Macular Degeneration Screening
- Visual Acuity/Auto-Refraction
- Eye Pressure Check (Tonometry)
- Corneal Thickness Measurement
- Optic Nerve & Macular Scan/Optical Coherence Tomography (Nerve & Macular)
- Optic Nerve & Retinal Photography
- Doctor’s Consult
Cataract Basic Screening Package
- Refraction
- Visual Acuity
- Eye Pressure Check
- Doctor's Consult
Validity Period – Upto 31 Jan 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Early signs include blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night.
No, cataracts do not resolve on their own. Surgery is the only effective treatment.
Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens implant.
While minor issues like infection, inflammation, or irritation may occasionally occur, they are usually temporary and respond well to treatment. With today’s surgical methods, serious complications are uncommon.
Costs can vary depending on the type of surgery and lens chosen. Contact us for more information.
Early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial in managing cataracts effectively. Don’t let blurred vision impact your daily life.
Contact Asia Pacific Eye Centre today to schedule your consultation and restore clear vision.
Book a Consultation
Get an eye checkup with us now!
Interested to fix a consult with our eye specialist? Get in touch with us!
