Eye Health Information Center

cataracts

A cataract is a clouding or darkening that develops in the normally clear lens of the eye. This prevents the lens from properly focusing light on the retina, at the back of the eye, resulting in a loss of vision.

causes of cataracts

No one is exactly sure what causes a cataract, but it is known that chemical changes within the lens cause it to become cloudy. This is often thought of as a part of the natural aging process, but it may also result from heredity, an injury or disease. Some medications and poorly controlled diabetes can also contribute to the formation of cataracts.

who is at risk

Cataracts are most often found in persons over age 55, but are also occasionally found in younger persons. Cataracts usually develop in both eyes, but often at different rates. Some cataracts develop slowly over a period of years and others form rapidly within a few months. In a comprehensive eye examination, your eye doctor can determine whether or not you have cataracts.

cataract prevention

Currently there is no proven method to prevent cataracts from forming or to make the cloudy lens clear after a cataract has developed. Wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection, practicing proper nutrition and avoiding smoking are all recommended ways to reduce the risk of developing cataracts. Your eye doctor can prescribe changes in your glasses or contact lenses to help you see more clearly as your cataract develops.

symptoms of cataracts

• Increasing haziness causing blurred or distorted vision
• Colors may seem yellowed
• The appearance of dark spots or shadows that seem to move when the eye moves
• An increasing need for more light to see clearly
• A tendency to become more near sighted because of increasing density of the lens
• Double vision
• A gradual loss of color vision
• A stage where it is easier to see without glasses, some times called second sight

cataract treatment

If your cataract impairs your daily activities, your optometrist can refer you to an eye surgeon who may recommend surgical removal of the cataract. The surgery is relatively uncomplicated and has a high success rate. During cataract surgery, your eye's natural lens is removed. Some type of treatment is usually needed to achieve clear, comfortable vision. Intra ocular lenses, contact lenses and glasses are all common forms of post-cataract vision correction. Intra ocular lens implants are inserted at the time of surgery and serve as "new" lenses. As an alternative to the lens implants, daily wear and continuous wear contact lenses have also become increasingly popular as post-cataract vision correction. Whatever the treatment, regular follow up care is important in making sure you maintain good vision and eye health.

To schedule an eye exam or a FREE LASIK consultation, call 1-800-EYECARE (393-2273) for an exam at any of our Crown Vision Center locations.