When talking about cataracts, people mostly associate them with older adults. It is true that cataract is the most common eye condition that older adults face. But that does not mean young children or kids cannot get it.

Cataract affects kids the same way it affects adults. In both cases, the end result is vision loss. There are two types of cataracts associated with kids. When a child develops a cataract at a very early age, it is called a paediatric cataract. And, if a newborn is born with the condition, it is called a cataract in newborn. In both cases, the cataract should be treated as soon as possible. Otherwise, the child’s cataract will develop over time and make performing day-to-day activities extremely hard.

What Is a Cataract in a Newborn?

Cataracts in kids are the same as cataracts in adults. They start with the clouding of the lens that slowly progresses and prevents light from reaching the retina. However, cataracts in infants are more dangerous than in adults. Because infants are still at a developing stage. At a time like that, cataracts can seriously impact long-term vision if left untreated. The brain learns to see only after receiving clear images from both eyes. Persistent blur in one or both eyes during infancy can result in amblyopia (lazy eye). Permanent visual impairment is also a possibility.

How Common Is Childhood Cataract?

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness, but only among older adults. In case of the children, the chances are very thin. Kids mostly get affected by refractive errors, lazy eye, and even retinal disorders. But cataracts are still a possibility. And, if it develops, a cataract can significantly affect a child’s vision.

What Causes Cataracts in Newborns?

We have already established that cataracts are dangerous for kids. They must be treated to avoid long-term visual issues. However, understanding what causes cataracts can help you handle the situation better.

1. Genetic Factors

Genetics has a huge influence on how our health will turn out. There are many conditions that kids inherit from their parents, and cataract is one of them. Cataracts at birth or congenital cataracts occur due to inherited genetic conditions. If the family has a history of eye disorders, there is a higher chance of congenital cataracts.

2. Infections During Pregnancy

When pregnant women suffer from health issues, their unborn children’s health can also be affected. It has been found that certain infections during pregnancy can actually increase the risk of cataracts. Pubella, cytomegalovirus and toxoplasmosis are most commonly associated with this.

3. Metabolic and Systemic Conditions

Certain metabolic disorders, like galactosaemia and endocrine abnormalities, can lead to cataract formation in infancy.

4. Unknown Factors

There are times when doctors cannot understand the specific cause of the cataract. This is not very uncommon. However, it is not a big reason to worry. The condition can still be treated, and your kid can lead a normal life. Early detection and timely treatment should be prioeritised.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Recognising early signs of a childhood cataract is vital. Unlike adults, infants cannot articulate what they are seeing. Parents and caregivers in Bihar should watch for the following:

• White or greyish reflex (white pupil) in photographs instead of the usual red reflex.
• Poor visual attention or not following objects with the eyes.
• Frequent eye rubbing or squinting.
• Cloudy or opaque pupil visible when looking at the baby’s eyes.
• Nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movements) in severe or bilateral cases.

If any of these signs are noticed, parents should seek an eye examination without delay.

Diagnosis: When and How Is It Done?

A childhood cataract is usually diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination by an eye care professional. This often includes:

• Observation of the red reflex using an ophthalmoscope.
• Assessment under dilated pupils to inspect the lens.
• Vision assessment appropriate for the baby’s age.
• Sometimes ultrasound if the cataract is dense.

In Bihar, early screening during newborn check-ups or at immunisation visits can help identify cataracts early, even before obvious symptoms arise.

Cataract Treatment: What Works Best?

The treatment approach depends on the size, density, and impact of the cataract on vision:

1. Observation

Very small cataracts that do not interfere with vision may only need monitoring.

2. Surgery

For visually significant or dense cataracts, surgery is the main treatment. In infants, this is often recommended early because delayed treatment can cause irreversible visual deprivation. Surgery usually involves removing the cloudy lens so that light can reach the retina clearly.

3. Visual Rehabilitation

After surgery, visual rehabilitation is crucial. This may include:

• Glasses or contact lenses to focus light correctly.
• Patching therapy if one eye is weaker, to prevent amblyopia.
• Regular follow-ups to monitor visual development.

Why is Early Detection Important?

During the first few years, a child’s body develops continuously. This development is necessary for the body and mind. If cataracts are present from a very early age, the eye will not get proper exposure to its surrounding environment. As a result, the eye might not develop properly. The child can also develop other eye conditions because of cataracts. However, any long-term damage can easily be prevented if the child is taken to a doctor as soon as any problem is noticed.

Cataract is treatable. And it matures over time. When it is in its initial stages, the damage to the eye is very minimal. Treating it during this time can reduce the risk of any long-term visual impairment. This is why early detection is crucial for cataracts in children. If the pupil appears whitish, consult a doctor immediately.

Living with Childhood Cataract in Bihar

Cataract in children can become a critical issue over time. However, leading a normal life is possible if the cataract is treated properly. There are plenty of examples where children with cataracts in Bihar have been able to see well again after receiving appropriate care. However, regular follow-ups and timely visual treatment are absolutely necessary.

If your child has a congenital cataract or developed a cataract after birth, these steps can help:

• Never miss a single health checkup for your newborn.
• Look for signs of abnormal eye issues. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are very important to treat it without any complications.
• If a surgery is done, make sure you do not miss follow-up visits. You must follow every instruction provided by the doctor.
• Talk to caregivers or doctors. It can help you understand the visual needs of your child.

Wrapping up

A cataract in a newborn or childhood cataract is a serious eye condition that requires early attention. There is doubt that it is a rare condition. But it can still happen. And if it does, an untreated cataract can significantly impact your child’s vision. Therefore, you can never risk overlooking it. Cataracts are far more dangerous in children than in adults.

Thankfully, cataracts in children can be treated. If you notice any signs of cataract, take your child to an eye specialist or hospital. Doctors can easily diagnose the condition and give the best solution. If surgery is recommended, it is best not to delay it. The only treatment for cataract is surgery. Proper follow-up care will ensure that the child does not experience any complications after the surgery.