Cataract

What is a Cataract?

The natural lens of the eye allows light to pass through allowing you to see. When the lens loses transparency it is known as a cataract. Cataracts cause progressive, painless loss of vision. The lens clouds naturally as we age, so people over the age of 65 usually see a gradual reduction of vision. In younger people they can result from an injury, certain medications, or illnesses such as diabetes. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may also play a role in the formation of cataracts. Studies have also shown that people who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of developing cataracts than non-smokers.

How do you know if you have Cataracts?

Here are some vision changes you may notice if you have a cataract:
  • Blurry vision
  • Double vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Trouble seeing well at night
  • Difficulty seeing street signs when you drive
  • Difficulty reading
  • Glasses no longer seem to work anymore
  • Colors are faded or yellow instead
  • Glare or Haloes around lights

How is a Cataract treated?

The only way to correct vision from a cataract is cataract surgery. If your vision interferes with your ability to the things you enjoy or work then it may be time to consider cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery is an outpatient surgery and requires very little downtime. It is one of the most commonly performed procedures. We often perform surgery on one eye first and then as soon as one to two weeks later we perform surgery on the second eye.

The natural lens of your eye is replaced with an implant during surgery that will correct your vision. There are a variety of different implants to meet your needs. Testing prior to surgery will help determine the implant that will best meet your visual needs and requirements. The newest implants can help correct distance vision, near vision, and astigmatism so you will be able to see with little to no spectacle dependence after cataract surgery.
Call to Schedule an Appointment
Learn about eye conditions with EyeSmart
Learn about eye conditions
with EyeSmart
Learn More