Which condition is another potential complication of cataracts?

Which condition is another potential complication of cataracts?

• A. Glaucoma
• B. Retinal detachment
• C. Macular degeneration
• D. Strabismus

Answer: (B)

Retinal detachment is a recognized complication that can occur in eyes with cataracts, especially around the time of cataract surgery. During removal of the cloudy lens, changes in the vitreous or a preexisting weakness in the retina can allow the retina to tear and separate from the back of the eye. Eyes with risk factors like high myopia, lattice degeneration, or prior trauma are more susceptible. Seek urgent care if you notice a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow moving across the vision. Glaucoma, macular degeneration, and strabismus are not typically considered direct complications of cataracts. Glaucoma involves optic nerve damage related to intraocular pressure; macular degeneration affects the central retina; strabismus is a misalignment of the eyes.

Retinal detachment is a recognized complication that can occur in eyes with cataracts, especially around the time of cataract surgery. During removal of the cloudy lens, changes in the vitreous or a preexisting weakness in the retina can allow the retina to tear and separate from the back of the eye. Eyes with risk factors like high myopia, lattice degeneration, or prior trauma are more susceptible. Seek urgent care if you notice a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow moving across the vision.

Glaucoma, macular degeneration, and strabismus are not typically considered direct complications of cataracts. Glaucoma involves optic nerve damage related to intraocular pressure; macular degeneration affects the central retina; strabismus is a misalignment of the eyes.