What is the role of anti-inflammatories in cataract treatment?

In cataract treatment, the role of anti-inflammatories is primarily to control lens-induced uveitis. When a cataract develops, the lens of the eye can evoke an inflammatory response due to the release of lens proteins into the eye, which the immune system recognizes as foreign. This response can lead to uveitis, an inflammation of the uveal tract, which can cause pain, redness, and vision problems.

Anti-inflammatory medications help to mitigate this inflammatory response, reducing symptoms and preventing further complications that could arise from ongoing inflammation. Addressing lens-induced uveitis is crucial, as uncontrolled inflammation can lead to secondary problems such as glaucoma or vision loss.

While anti-inflammatories are beneficial in managing the inflammatory reactions associated with cataracts, they do not dissolve or cure cataracts themselves. The definitive treatment for cataracts is surgical removal of the cloudy lens, followed by insertion of an artificial intraocular lens. Therefore, understanding the role of anti-inflammatories in this context is essential for effective management of cataract-associated complications.