The term "milky cataract" refers to a cloudy opacity in the eye's lens, resulting in decreased visual acuity. The spelling is straightforward, using standard English pronunciation rules. The first syllable of "milky" is pronounced as "milk," with a long "i" sound. "Cataract" is divided into three syllables, with the first syllable pronounced "cat," the second syllable with a short "a" sound, and the final syllable as "tact." In phonetic transcription, "milky cataract" would be written as /ˈmɪlki ˈkætərækt/.
Milky cataract refers to a specific type of cataract, a condition characterized by clouding or opacity of the eye's lens, which is typically clear and transparent. Specifically, a milky cataract is distinguished by its appearance of a milky or whitish coloration, which is caused by the protein clumping together and obstructing the transmission of light through the lens.
Cataracts in general can develop due to various factors, including aging, genetics, eye injuries or diseases, long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and certain medications. However, milky cataracts are often associated with genetic disorders or metabolic diseases such as galactosemia, a rare condition in which the body is unable to process galactose, a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products.
The symptoms of a milky cataract may include blurred or fuzzy vision, decreased visual acuity, sensitivity to glare, and difficulty perceiving colors accurately. It is important to note that the progression of cataracts varies among individuals, and not everyone experiences the same symptoms.
The treatment for milky cataracts typically involves surgical intervention, known as cataract surgery, which entails the removal of the clouded lens and its replacement with an artificial intraocular lens implant. This procedure aims to restore clear vision and improve the affected individual's overall quality of life. Additionally, regular eye exams and early detection play a crucial role in managing and preventing complications associated with milky cataracts.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "milky cataract" is used to describe a specific type of cataract where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, resulting in a milky appearance. The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Milky: The word "milky" describes something that resembles or is similar to milk in color or appearance. It is derived from the noun "milk", which originated from the Old English "meoluc" and the Proto-Germanic "melukaz".
2. Cataract: The word "cataract" is used to refer to a condition in the eye where the lens becomes cloudy, leading to a decrease in vision. The term "cataract" has its roots in the Latin word "cataracta", which means "waterfall" or a "portcullis".