About
Cataracts are an eye condition where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. The lens normally allows light to pass through the eye. When the lens becomes cloudy, light can pass through. So, vision becomes blurred. This can happen in one eye or both eyes.
Cataracts are most common in adults. However, they can also affect babies and young kids. Because the eyes are still developing, cataract should be treated right away. Delaying the treatment can increase the risk of lazy eye.
Types of childhood cataract
There are two types: congenital and juvenile. Congenital cataracts are found in newborn babies, while juvenile cataracts develop in toddlers or young children.
Causes:
In many cases, the exact cause is unknown. The main causes of congenital cataracts are genetic disorders (like Down’s Syndrome) and infections during pregnancy (like measles and rubella).
Juvenile cataracts are acquired later in life. They may be due to diabetes, eye trauma, infection by a parasite, or galactosaemia (a condition where the sugar in milk cannot be broken down by the body).
If you have a family history of childhood cataracts, your child may be at a greater risk.
Treatment
Allergic conjunctivitis can get better on its own after a few weeks. Most of the time it gets better with anti-allergic medicines. In rare instances, a doctor may tell you to use steroid eye drops. Only use the eye drops with a doctor’s advice. Using steroids without a doctor’s advice can cause permanent vision loss!