Cataracts

What is a cataract?

A cataract is clouding of a natural lens in our eyes. The lens lies behind the iris and pupil. It was clear when we born and the proteins that make up the lens clump together as we age. These clumps cause the cloudiness which grow larger over time and cause blurry vision similar to looking through a foggy window.
 

What causes cataracts?

Most cataracts develop when aging and circumstances change the lens tissue. Common risk factors include:

• UV from sunlight
• Health conditions such as Diabetes, Hypertension and Obesity
• Smoking
• Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
• Eye injury

What are common cataract symptoms?

• Blurry vision that is not correctable with prescription glasses
• Light sensitivity
• Halos around bright lights
• Glare
• Difficulty in seeing at night or in low lighting
• Cloudy or dim vision

How do you prevent cataracts?

Although there is no known way to stop cataracts from developing with age, we can definitely lower some of the risk factors to slow cataracts progression rate.
 

5 simple ways to lower cataract risk factors:

• Wear sunglasses
• Quit smoking
• Eat a healthy balanced diet and maintain an exercise routine
• Manage health problems such as diabetes and hypertension
• Get a regular eye exam

How do you treat cataracts?

If you have a cataract, that doesn’t always mean you need a surgery immediately. Some people who have cataracts see just fine when they wear prescription glasses and rely on brighter lighting. But as cataracts grow, they can cause more symptoms. Your eye doctor will suggest surgery when cataract is large enough to be removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the United States and is successful in restoring vision.