Study of Serum Sodium and Potassium Levels in Senile Cataract Patients Versus Normal Controls at Tertiary Center

Abstract

Aims: Senile cataract is a common eye condition that affects many older people and can lead to blindness if not treated. It is caused by the gradual thickening of the lens of the eye, which reduces the clarity of vision. One of the factors that may contribute to the development of senile cataract is the imbalance of serum electrolytes, which are minerals that help regulate the fluid balance in the body. Study Design: Hospital based prospective cross-sectional study. Methodology: The aim of this study was to compare the levels of serum sodium and potassium in senile cataract patients and healthy controls. The study involved 200 participants aged 50 to 80 years, 100 of whom had senile cataract and 100 of whom did not. The levels of serum electrolytes were measured using standard laboratory methods. Results: Senile cataract patients had significantly higher levels of serum sodium and potassium than healthy controls, while there was no significant difference in serum potassium levels between the two groups. Conclusion: The high levels of serum sodium and potassium may affect the concentration of these electrolytes in the aqueous humor, which is the fluid that fills the eye. This may overwhelm the ability of the lens to regulate its volume and lead to lens opacities. Therefore, serum sodium and potassium levels may be useful indicators of senile cataract risk. The study also suggested that reducing salt intake may help prevent or delay the onset of senile cataract.