What causes cataracts and how do you treat them? The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

Cataracts are where the eye lens develops cloudy patches, causing blurry vision that is like looking through frosted glass. It is usually caused by age but can be accelerated by having diabetes or taking steroids.

The only treatment is surgery, which is generally straightforward and done under local anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a tiny cut, removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear plastic one. The NHS generally offers a fixed lens for either near or distance vision, so you will probably still need to wear glasses. Usually both eyes are treated separately.

Surgery should improve focus and you will experience less glare when looking at bright lights. In terms of risks, there is about a one in 50 risk of serious complications in cataract surgery, including loss of vision or detached retina. However, these can generally be treated.

What exercise is safe to do with osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to break. The two best forms of exercise are weight-bearing and resistance. Weight-bearing exercise forces you to work against gravity. It’s better if you add impact, such as jumping or star jumps, but always check with your GP before doing high-impact exercise. Walking is generally fine.

Resistance exercises, like lifting weights or using resistance bands, help to strengthen bones. Building muscle strength will protect your joints but be careful when twisting at the waist as it can increases the risk of compression fractures.

Why is vitamin D good for you?

Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphate in the body to help keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. A lack will lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, which causes bone pain and fragility. You get vitamin D through sun exposure and your diet. Oily fish, like salmon, tuna and sardines, is the best source, as well as dairy products, egg yolks and fortified cereals. I recommend everyone in Scotland take a vitamin D supplement in winter as we have less exposure to sunlight.

The Doc Replies

The Sunday Post, Speirs View, 50 High Craighall Road, Glasgow G4 9UD or email us at doc@sundaypost.com