What Is Cataract? A Comprehensive Guide for Patients in Bihar

Eye problems have become increasingly common across India, and the situation is no different in Bihar. Among the various eye conditions that affect people—especially as they age—cataract is one of the most widespread. Many people have heard the term “motiyabind,” but very few truly understand what cataract is, why it happens, and how it can affect vision. Because cataract is painless in the beginning and develops slowly, most people ignore early signs until the vision becomes severely blurred.

This blog explains what cataract is, how it develops, its symptoms, causes, and modern treatment options—so you can protect your eyesight and make informed decisions.

What Are Cataracts or Motiyabind?

A cataract is an eye problem where the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy. The lens is a transparent structure located behind the iris (the colored part of the eye). Its job is to focus light onto the retina, helping us see pictures clearly.

When this lens becomes cloudy, the vision of the person becomes blurry—like looking through a foggy glass or a dusty window. Over time, the cloudiness increases and gradually makes daily activities like reading, driving, cooking, seeing at night or recognising faces difficult.

Cataract is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide, but the good news is that it is completely curable with modern surgical techniques.

How Does the Eyes Natural Lens Become Cloudy?

The eye’s lens is made mostly of water and proteins arranged in a way that keeps it clear. As we age, these proteins start breaking down and clumping together, forming cloudy patches. These patches slowly grow and block the light entering into the eye.

This natural aging process is the most common reason for cataract, but it is not the only cause. Even younger people can develop cataracts due to certain medical conditions—especially diabetes, eye injuries, or long-term steroid use. A newborn baby can also have cataracts due to certain medical conditions during pregnancy.

Cataracts Types

To better understand the condition, it helps to know its main types:

1. Age-related Cataract

The most common type. It develops gradually as part of the natural aging process. Most people above 60 experience some degree of cataract.

2. Diabetic Cataract

People with diabetes, especially uncontrolled diabetes, tend to develop cataracts earlier—sometimes even in their 40s or 50s.

3. Secondary Cataract

Caused by medical conditions, surgeries, or long-term use of steroids.

4. Traumatic Cataract

Occurs after an eye injury or accident. Very common in rural areas where farm work, outdoor labor, and lack of eye protection increase the risk.

5. Congenital Cataract

Some babies are born with cataracts due to genetic factors or infections during pregnancy.

Each type develops differently, but the effect remains the same—gradual clouding of the lens and progressive vision loss.

Why Is Cataract So Common in Bihar?

While cataract affects people everywhere, certain factors make it more prevalent in Bihar:

• High exposure to sunlight among farmers and outdoor workers
• Lack of awareness about early symptoms
• Late diagnosis of diabetes, which accelerates cataract development
• Limited access to routine eye checkups in rural areas
• Delaying treatment due to fear of surgery or financial concerns
• Poor nutrition, leading to deficiencies that affect eye health

These factors combined result in many Bihar patients seeking treatment only when cataract becomes mature and severely impacts daily life.

Cataract Symptoms or Signs

Cataracts develop slowly and without pain, so you may not notice any sudden changes in the field of vision. Over time, however, symptoms start becoming more noticeable. These include blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, increased sensitivity to bright light, difficulty in driving at night, glare around lights, colors looking faded or yellowish, needing brighter light for reading, frequent changes in eyeglass power, or even double vision in one eye. If you or a family member experiences any of these signs—especially after age 50 or in the presence of diabetes—it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye checkup.

How Cataract Develops?

There is no fixed timeline. Some cataracts progress slowly over years, while others—especially diabetic or traumatic cataracts—may worsen quickly within months or after an injury.

In Bihar, many patients do not get regular eye examinations, so cataracts often go unnoticed until the vision becomes very blurry. Regular checkups can help detect cataracts early, even when symptoms are mild.

Can Cataract Preventable

Cataracts, especially those due to aging, cannot always be prevented, but certain lifestyle habits can help lower the risk or slow the progression of cataract. Protecting your eyes from UV rays with proper sunglasses, maintaining good control of blood sugar, and eating a nutrient-rich diet that includes green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and dairy all contribute to healthier eyes. Avoiding smoking and tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, managing high blood pressure, exercise and getting regular eye checkups after age 40 are also essential to prevent it. These precautions are particularly important in Bihar, where uncontrolled diabetes and long hours of outdoor work can significantly increase the risk of developing cataracts.

Cataract Diagnosis: How It Is Detected

A cataract is diagnosed through a complete eye examination by an ophthalmologist. Common tests include:

• Visual acuity test (checking power and clarity)
• Slit-lamp examination (looking at the lens)
• Retina evaluation
• Measurement of eye pressure

These tests help determine the type and stage of cataract, and whether surgery is needed.

Can Eye Drops or Medicines Treat Cataract?

The answer is, no eye drop, medicines, or home remedy can cure or remove cataract.

Many people in Bihar believe that ayurvedic drops or herbal oils can “melt” cataract, but this is scientifically incorrect. Once the lens becomes cloudy, only the stitch less and pain less cataract surgery can restore clear vision.

Cataract Treatment: Surgery is the Only Effective Solution

Cataracts cannot be treated with eye drops or medicines; surgery is the only proven and effective as well as stitch and painless procedure. Cataract surgery is usually stitch-less and painless. During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an Intraocular Lens (IOL), which restores sharp vision and prevents further deterioration.

There are two common types of cataract surgery: Phacoemulsification (PHACO) and Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS). PHACO is the more advanced option, offering quicker recovery and minimal discomfort. SICS is a more affordable technique and is often recommended for mature or hard cataracts. Both are safe, and the choice depends on the patient’s eye condition and the doctor’s evaluation.

Life Post Cataract Surgery

Recovery is usually quick. Most patients notice clearer vision within 24–48 hours. Following postoperative instructions—like using prescribed eye drops, avoiding dust, and protecting the eye from injury—ensures smooth healing.

Patients with diabetes must continue regular eye checkups to monitor retina health.

Conclusion:

Cataract is a natural clouding of the eye’s lens that leads to blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing clearly. It is extremely common, especially in older adults and diabetic patients. While cataract cannot be reversed with medicines, modern cataract surgery offers a safe, quick, and effective solution to restore sight.

For people in Bihar, awareness is the key. Early diagnosis, regular eye checkups, and timely treatment can protect your vision and help you lead a confident, independent life.