Cataracts
Almost everyone develops cataracts as they grow older.
Although we usually associate cataracts with aging, patients of all ages can develop
cataracts. Almost everyone develops cataracts as they grow older.
Cataract formations occur at different rates and can affect one or both eyes.
A cataract is a progressive clouding of the eye's natural
lens. It interferes with light passing through the eye to the retina. Aging and
other factors cause proteins in the eye's lens to clump together forming these
cloudy areas. Early changes may not disturb vision, but over time cataracts
typically result in blurred or fuzzy vision and sensitivity to light. People
with progressed cataracts often say they feel as if they're looking through a
waterfall or a piece of wax paper.
Over time cataracts typically result in blurred or fuzzy vision.
Symptoms of cataracts:
- Decreasing vision with age
- Blurred or double vision
- Seeing halos around bright lights
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Vision that worsens in sunlight
- Difficulty distinguishing colors
- Poor depth perception
- Frequent prescription changes for glasses
- Difficulty reading
Causes of cataracts:
- Age
- Eye trauma
- Heredity
- Diabetes
- Some medications including long-term use of oral steroids
- Ultraviolet radiation
- Smoking
- Glaucoma
- Certain metabolic conditions
Diagnosing cataracts:
Your eye doctor can perform a contrast sensitivity test to determine how much your vision has been affected by a cataract. But typically, when decreased vision affects your everyday activities or hobbies, a cataract should be treated.
Treating cataracts:
Currently there is no medical treatment to reverse or prevent the development of cataracts. Once they form, the only way to achieve clear vision again is through cataract surgery.