A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. For people who have cataracts, seeing through cloudy lenses is a bit like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. Clouded vision caused by cataracts can make it more difficult to read, drive a car (especially at night) or perform regular day-to-day activities.
Common Symptoms of Cataracts
There are several symptoms that may occur from cataracts:
- Clouded, blurred, or dimmed vision
- Fading colors
- Poor night vision
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Double or multiple vision in one eye
- Seeing “halos” around lights
- Frequent prescription changes (when using eyeglasses or contacts)
Many people don’t realize they have cataracts until they get worse. This makes early detection and treatment even more crucial.
Most cataracts develop slowly and don’t disturb your eyesight early on. But with time, cataracts will eventually interfere with your vision.
What Causes Cataracts?
The eye’s lens is made up of mostly water and protein, and the protein forms in a certain way to keep the lens clear allowing light to pass through. This allows a clear and focused image onto the retinal surface.
As we age, the protein in our lens may move or clump together, forming a clouded area on the lens called a cataract.
There are three common types of cataracts that could occur as you age:
- Nuclear Sclerotic: This is the most common type of cataract. It involves a hardening and yellowing of the lens over time.
- Cortical: This cataract leaves the outside of the lens cloudy, and your vision may become blurred or dimmed.
- Posterior Subcapsular: This cataract leaves a cloudy area on the back surface of the lens which results in the “halo” effect or sensitivity to glare and light.
What to Do If You Have Cataracts
As you age, your eyes become more susceptible to issues which could affect your vision. Luckily, cataract surgery is one of the most common and safe surgical procedures in the world! If you or someone you know is struggling with cataracts, click here to request an appointment at one of our five locations!