Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions affecting older adults. While most people have heard of cataracts, there is often confusion about what they are, how they affect vision, and when treatment is necessary. Here are answers to some of the most common questions our patients ask about cataracts.
What exactly is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside your eye. That lens sits behind the colored part of your eye (the iris) and normally helps focus light so you can see clearly. When the lens turns cloudy, light can’t pass through as easily. You may notice blurred or hazy vision, more glare, and trouble seeing in low light.
Cataracts usually develop slowly over time, not overnight.
What causes cataracts to develop?
The most common cause of cataracts is aging. As the eye’s lens ages, proteins can break down and clump together, creating cloudy areas. Other common risk factors include:
- Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Long-term use of steroid medications
- Eye injuries or previous eye surgery
- Family history of cataracts
What are the most common cataract symptoms?
Cataract symptoms often begin gradually and worsen over time. Common warning signs include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light or glare
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Colors appearing faded or yellowed
- Seeing halos around lights
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions
Because these symptoms can also be associated with other eye conditions, a comprehensive eye exam is the best way to confirm whether cataracts are the cause.
Can cataracts be prevented?
While cataracts cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle habits may help slow their progression. These include wearing sunglasses that block UV rays, eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, avoiding smoking, and scheduling regular eye exams.
Is surgery always necessary?
Cataracts do not always require immediate surgery. In early stages, symptoms may be managed with updated eyeglasses, brighter lighting, or anti-glare lenses. However, if they begin to interfere with daily activities such as driving, reading, or working, cataract surgery may be recommended. Cataract surgery, which replaces the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one, is one of the most common and successful surgical procedures to restore vision.
Could they possibly go away on their own?
Unfortunately, no. Once a cataract forms, it does not clear up on its own or with eye drops, vitamins, or exercises. The lens will continue to get cloudier over time, although it can vary from person to person how quickly this happens. Stronger glasses or better lighting can help for a while. But as previously mentioned, surgery will likely eventually be needed once it progresses enough.
Regular Vision Exams at Family Vision Development Center Are Important for Cataract Detection
Routine eye exams are essential for detecting cataracts early, often before symptoms significantly affect vision. When you visit Family Vision Development Center for regular vision care, it allows us to monitor changes, recommend appropriate treatment, and ensure your eyes remain healthy as you age.
In addition to identifying cataracts, comprehensive vision exams can provide early detection of other vision problems like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease, which can all damage your vision without obvious early symptoms. Make vision a priority to protect your eyesight for as long as possible – schedule your appointment for a comprehensive eye exam by calling 630-862-2020.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear.