What are cataracts?
Cataracts are a condition that develops as the lens in your eye gets cloudy or hazy. As you age, the lenses in your eyes become less flexible, and the proteins in your eyes start to clump together. Over time, your lens becomes thick and opaque, which distorts and reduces your vision.
Cataracts usually develop slowly starting around the age of 40, although most patients don’t have any noticeable symptoms until they are over 60 years old.
What are the signs of cataracts?
In their early stages, cataracts won’t cause any symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you may notice symptoms, including:
- Dim or blurred vision
- Faded or yellowed colors
- Decreased night vision
- Light sensitivity
- Needing brighter light to read
- Visual disturbances like halos or double vision
If you notice any changes in your vision, you should make an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam at Simply Eyes.
What causes cataracts?
Cataracts are usually due to age-related deterioration. However, an injury or surgery to your eye can also trigger the changes in your lenses. Some of the other risk factors for cataracts include:
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
- Smoking
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Heavy alcohol use
- Prolonged use of corticosteroids
While you are not able to reduce the effects of aging, you can limit other risks by always wearing sunglasses or adding UV protective coating to your eyeglasses. You should also take care of your overall health by managing your weight, avoiding tobacco products, and getting treatment for other health issues.
How are cataracts treated?
After your cataract diagnosis, Dr. Bui or Dr. Pham monitor its progression and effects on your vision. During the early stages of cataracts, eyeglasses may be prescribed to help you see clearly.
However, as your cataracts progress, you may need to have surgery to replace the lens in your eye. Although the team at Simply Eyes does not perform the surgery, they provide pre- and post-operative care and referrals to local eye surgeons.
If you are due for an eye exam or have concerns about cataracts or other eye health conditions, call Simply Eyes or schedule a consultation online today.
