Do you ever feel like your eyes are playing tricks on you?  You may suffer from cataracts if you’ve been experiencing blurry vision or seeing halos or double images. But don’t despair.  Cataracts are a common eye condition that can treated. 

In this article, we’ll look at cataracts, their causes, diagnosis, and available treatments. Let’s get started!

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. The lens inside your eye helps you focus on near and far objects. When the lens becomes cloudy, it can cause your vision to become blurry or distorted. Cataracts are a common age-related eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of blindness.

Types of Cataracts

There are three main types of cataracts, each associated with a different cause:

Age-related Cataracts

These are the most common types of cataracts and occur when proteins in the eye break down due to age. This results in the lens becoming cloudy, which in turn causes a loss of vision.

Traumatic Cataracts

These can result from physical eye injury, trauma, or even emerge post-surgery.

Congenital Cataracts

These cataracts present at birth or develop in early childhood, usually due to genetics.

What is the Symptom of Cataracts?

Here are  the most common symptoms of cataracts:

• Blurry vision
• Glare from lights or sunlight
• Double vision in one eye 
• Poor night vision
• Faded colors or yellowing of vision

Causes of Cataracts 

Understanding the causes of cataracts can help to identify if you are at risk for developing this eye condition.

Age-related changes in the eye

As we age, our eyes are more prone to developing cataracts. Age-related cataracts usually produce around 60 and occur as proteins in the eye break down. This can result in clouding of the lens, resulting in blurry vision.

Long-term sun exposure:

Prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun can accelerate the development of age-related cataracts. It’s essential to wear sunglasses and a hat when outdoors for extended periods to protect your eyes from UV radiation.

Trauma to the eye

Physical trauma to the eye, such as a blow to the head or an accident, can cause cataracts. In some cases, surgery performed on the eyes can also lead to cataracts.

Certain health conditions

Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and smoking can increase your risk of developing cataracts. It’s important to discuss any health issues you may have with your doctor to understand your risk of developing this eye condition.

Diagnosis of Cataracts 

If you think you may be suffering from cataracts, visiting an eye care specialist or ophthalmologist is essential. Your doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the type and severity of your cataracts.

Examining eyesight changes

During your examination, your doctor will ask you about any vision changes that you’ve noticed. They may also use an eye chart to measure how far away you can see clearly or if there is any distortion in your vision.

Slit lamp exam

Your doctor may also use a slit lamp exam to examine the lenses inside your eyes. This involves using a microscope-like device with a bright light to illuminate and magnify the lens, helping to determine if cataracts are present.

Potential imaging tests

Your doctor may also use imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to get a better view of the structures inside your eye. These tests provide more detailed information about the size and severity of any present cataracts.

Treatments for Cataracts 

Depending on the type and severity of your cataracts, different treatment options are available.

Eyeglasses and contact lenses

If your cataracts are mild, wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses will help improve your vision. Using these corrective lenses can help to reduce the blurriness associated with cataracts.

Medications

Sometimes, your doctor may recommend certain eye drops or oral medications to help reduce the progression of cataracts. These medications can work by reducing inflammation in the eyes and slowing down the progression of cataracts.

Surgery

If your cataracts are more advanced, you may need to consider surgery. During this procedure, an ophthalmologist will remove the clouded lens and replace it with a new, clear one. This is a relatively standard and safe procedure, but discussing the risks and benefits of cataract surgery with your doctor is essential.

Lifestyle changes

Making specific lifestyle changes can also help to reduce the progression of cataracts. Eating a healthy diet, wearing protective eyewear outdoors, and avoiding smoking are necessary if you have been diagnosed with cataracts.

Conclusion

Cataracts are a common eye condition that can make everyday activities difficult. Fortunately, several treatment options are available to help manage cataracts and improve vision. Surgery is generally considered the most effective treatment for restoring eyesight, but other treatments, such as eyeglasses and contact lenses, may also be helpful.

Ultimately, people with cataracts need to consult their doctor to determine the best treatment plan. With proper diagnosis, education, and care, individuals can regain their vision and enjoy a better quality of life. You might even be able to read the label on that bottle of wine in your kitchen again.

Dr. Joseph Cohen O.D.

Woodland Hills Optometrist

Receive an Excellent Service and Comprehensive Eye Care

(818) 345-3937

Providing service in English and Farsi

19737 Ventura Blvd., Suite 201, Woodland Hills, CA 91364