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What Causes Cataracts To Develop In Children?

Children can develop cataracts due to genetic factors, infections during pregnancy, trauma, or underlying metabolic disorders.

Cataracts are often associated with aging, but they can also affect infants and children, a condition known as pediatric cataracts or childhood cataracts. At Kenia Eye Hospital, a trusted cataract eye hospital in Mumbai, we help families understand why cataracts occur so early in life and what treatment options for cataracts in children are available.

Let’s explore the child cataracts causes, their symptoms, and how early diagnosis and treatment can protect your child’s vision

Most Common Causes of Cataracts in Children You Should Know

Below are the most common causes of children cataracts that new parents must be aware of!

1. Congenital Cataracts - Present at Birth

Congenital cataracts are one of the leading childhood blindness causes and due to:

  • Genetic eye conditions in children
  • Hereditary cataracts, especially if there's a family history
  • TORCH infections and cataracts, where infections like rubella, cytomegalovirus, or toxoplasmosis affect the fetus during pregnancy
  • Intrauterine infections and cataracts, damaging the lens before birth
  • Metabolic disorders and cataracts, such as galactosemia or Lowe syndrome

These are often detected during routine newborn eye exams or pediatric checkups.

2. Developmental or Juvenile Cataracts - Appear Later in Childhood

Juvenile cataracts develop after birth and are commonly linked to:

  • Pediatric eye disorders like uveitis or chronic eye inflammation
  • Eye development problems in infants, such as abnormal lens formation
  • Certain metabolic disorders or drug reactions

3. Traumatic Cataracts in Kids

Eye injuries are a surprisingly common reason behind pediatric cataracts. Even a small blunt force trauma or penetrating injury can damage the lens and cause it to cloud over time.

At Kenia Eye Hospital, our team specializing in pediatric ophthalmology carefully assesses trauma-related cataracts to determine the safest treatment plan.

Pediatric Cataract Symptoms: How to Spot Cataracts in Children

Cataracts in children can be difficult to spot early, especially since young kids may not express vision problems clearly. Here are some key signs parents should watch out for:

  • White or grayish spot in the pupil
  • Poor focus or misaligned eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Delayed visual response
  • Squinting or unusual eye movements

While these signs may seem subtle at first, they can indicate serious vision issues. If you notice any of them, it’s important to schedule a pediatric eye exam early to explore timely Cataracts in Children treatment options.

How Kenia Eye Hospital Diagnoses and Treats Cataracts in Children Effectively?

Early diagnosis and timely treatment are critical when it comes to protecting a child’s vision from pediatric cataracts. At Kenia Eye Hospital, we offer a complete care approach from detection to recovery.

Advanced Diagnosis with a Gentle Approach

Detecting childhood cataracts early allows for better treatment outcomes. Our pediatric eye specialists use advanced diagnostic tools designed specifically for young eyes to evaluate:

  • Lens clarity
  • Eye pressure
  • Visual response and acuity

Whether the cataract is congenital, juvenile, or the result of trauma, our pediatric ophthalmology team ensures a stress-free, child-friendly diagnostic experience. We are experts in identifying even the most subtle signs that could point to more serious pediatric eye disorders.

Personalized Treatment for Long-Term Vision Health

Once diagnosed, our specialists develop a treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific condition. The most effective approach for moderate to severe cases is cataract surgery in Mumbai, performed by our experienced pediatric eye surgeons.

Your child’s Cataracts treatment may include:

  • Pediatric lens removal, with or without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation
  • Post-surgery visual rehabilitation like patching therapy, glasses, or contact lenses
  • Ongoing follow-up care to support infant eye health and proper visual development

We are proud to offer the best cataract surgery in Mumbai, trusted by families across India for our safety, experience, and compassionate care.

Why Choose Kenia Eye Hospital for Pediatric Cataract Treatment?

With decades of experience in pediatric ophthalmology, Kenia Eye Hospital is recognized for:

  • Safe and child-friendly surgical environments
  • Specialized care for pediatric eye disorders
  • Expertise in treating congenital, hereditary, and traumatic cataracts in kids
  • Advanced diagnostics for genetic eye conditions in children
  • Personalized aftercare plans ensuring the best outcomes

If you are looking for the best cataract treatment in Mumbai, trust our team to protect and restore your child’s sight effectively.

Don’t Delay: Take Action Early to Protect Your Child’s Vision

You can prevent lifelong vision problems from childhood cataracts by acting early. When you detect the signs and seek treatment promptly, you give your child the best chance at clear, healthy vision, no matter if the child cataracts are congenital, genetic, infectious, or injury-related.

At Kenia Eye Hospital, we deliver advanced Cataracts in Children treatment with a compassionate touch. Our pediatric eye care team uses the latest technology and proven techniques to protect infant eye health and restore vision through the best cataract treatment in Mumbai.

If your child shows signs of vision trouble, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with our specialists today and give them the gift of lifelong sight.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can cataracts in children be prevented?

Not all causes can be prevented, especially if they’re genetic. However, early prenatal care and avoiding infections during pregnancy can reduce risk.

2. Is cataract surgery safe for infants?

Yes, when performed by experienced pediatric eye surgeons, cataract surgery is highly effective and safe, with proper follow-up care.

3. Is cataract surgery painful for children?

No, cataract surgery in children is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the child experiences no pain during the procedure.

4. What is the recovery time for pediatric cataract surgery?

Most children recover well within a few weeks, though vision therapy and follow-ups may continue for months to ensure optimal results.

5. At what age can a child have cataract surgery?

Pediatric cataract surgery can be safely performed as early as a few weeks after birth, depending on the severity and type of cataract diagnosed.

6. What happens if childhood cataracts are left untreated?

Untreated cataracts can lead to permanent vision impairment or amblyopia (lazy eye), especially during critical stages of visual development.