Cataracts

A cataract is the clouding of the lens of an eye, making it harder for to see out of it. This usually occurs in those over the age of 65. This cloudiness is the result of protein building up on the lens of the eyes, preventing light from passing through the lens.

There are different forms of cataracts that one can suffer from:

Age related cataracts, which occur from aging.
Congenital cataracts, which is from poor development of children before they were born, infection, or injury. Children can develop this during childhood as well.
Secondary cataracts, which occur as a result of other conditions (such as diabetic eye disease). Exposure to ultraviolet light, certain drugs, radiation, and other toxic substances can also be factors in the development of secondary cataracts.
Traumatic cataracts, which are caused when the eye is injured

The risk of developing cataracts is higher if you smoke, drink excessively, or are exposed to high levels of air pollution.

Some of the Symptoms of Cataracts:

Cloudy, blurry vision
Second sight. This is progressive nearsightedness. They call it this because the distance vision is getting worse but may no longer need the use of reading glasses
Color changes
Issues driving at night
Issues with glare during the day
Double vision
Sudden changes to your eye prescription

If you are experiencing any of these issues with your sight you should come in and visit our Optometrist. Our Optometrist will perform a dilated eye exam, where specialized eye drops are used to dilate your pupil and enable the Optometrist to clearly assess and inspect your cornea/lens.

Treating & Managing Cataracts

Cataracts are progressive, though the impacts to your vision can be mitigated for quite a while via contact lenses or eyeglasses. However, there will come a point where corrective lenses are no longer able to provide the clarity required for proper vision.

The only “cure” for cataracts is cataract removal surgery. During this safe procedure, your cloudy lens is removed and replaced by an intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL performs the same function as the natural lens.

Learn more about how we treat and manage cataracts.