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Cataract (kat-uh-rakt)
What is a Cataract?
- A cataract is a clouding or opacity in the lens of the eye
- Depending upon the size of the cataract, it can diminish normal vision
- The clouding process is a result of changes in the proteins and lens fibers in the eye
What are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
- Cataracts usually form rather slowly, so the symptoms my slowly progress over time
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Reduced color vision
- Increased difficulty seeing at night
- Change in prescription
- Increased complaints of glare when driving at night
How Common are Cataracts?
- Cataracts are very common as you age and cataract surgery is the most commonly performed surgical procedure performed in the world!What Causes Cataracts?
- Most cataracts form as a result of age and time
- Other possible causes of cataracts include diabetes, certain medications, UV radiation, smoking, alcohol and nutritional deficiency
- Some infants or young children can develop cataracts, but this is very rare
- The cause is usually genetics or infection during pregnancy
When do Cataracts Occur?
- Most cataracts develop in people over the age of 55
- Occasionally they occur in very young children
How are Cataracts Diagnosed?
- Diagnosing cataracts begins with a comprehensive eye exam at Shanks Family Eye Care
- During this exam, your doctor uses multiple tests to evaluate the presence of a cataract
- This may include evaluation of the lens and other supplemental testing
How are Cataracts Treated?
- There are some approaches to try and prevent cataract formation.
- This includes:
- Wearing sunglasses
- Discontinuing smoking
- Increasing the intake of antioxidant vitamins in the diet
- Eating lots of leafy green vegetables
- Treating cataracts depends on the severity and progression of the cataract.
- Cataract surgery is the most common treatment and it is the most commonly performed surgical procedure in the world!
Cataract Resources