The term "soft cataract" refers to a type of cataract that is characterized by a gradual and progressive clouding of the eye's natural lens. It is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /sɒft ˈkætərækt/, with the "s" sound at the beginning pronounced as "soft" and the "c" sound in "cataract" pronounced as "k." Soft cataracts typically develop slowly and can cause blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. Treatment options range from lifestyle changes to surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Soft cataract is a medical term used to describe a specific type of cataract characterized by a gradual clouding of the crystalline lens in the eye, resulting in a blurring or loss of vision. Cataracts occur when proteins in the lens of the eye clump together and cause opacity, leading to a decreased ability to see clearly. The term "soft" refers to the texture and consistency of the cataract, which is typically more pliable and malleable compared to other types.
Soft cataracts are commonly associated with age-related changes in the lens, but can also be caused by other factors such as genetic predisposition, trauma, or certain medications. Symptoms of soft cataracts may include blurry vision, increased sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing at night, and changes in color perception. As the cataract progresses, vision may become increasingly impaired, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.
Treatment for soft cataracts typically involves surgical intervention known as cataract extraction or phacoemulsification. This procedure involves the removal of the clouded lens and its replacement with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that restores clarity and improves vision. In some cases, the cataract may need to mature or progress further before surgery is recommended. Regular eye examinations and monitoring are crucial in evaluating the progression of soft cataracts and determining the appropriate time for surgery.
One which is of soft consistence throughout and white in color, phacomalacia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cataract" originated from the Latin word "cataracta", which means "waterfall". Ancient Greeks used this term to describe a visual impairment in which the eye lens becomes opaque, causing a cloudy or white appearance similar to a waterfall obstructing vision.
The term "soft cataract" is a specific type of cataract that describes a form where the eye lens becomes mildly opaque, allowing some light to pass through. However, it is worth noting that the term "soft" in "soft cataract" does not refer to the physical texture or consistency of the cataract but rather the level of opacity in comparison to other types of cataracts like "mature" or "hard" cataracts. The etymology of "soft cataract" lies in the adjectival use of "soft" to describe the extent of opacity.