More than half of Americans by age 80 have been diagnosed with cataracts or had cataract surgery, according to the National Eye Institute.
A cataract is an age-related clouding of the crystalline eye lens. The lens is located inside the eye just behind the iris. As we age, this transparent lens becomes opaque, leading to impaired vision.
Researchers aren’t sure what exactly causes cataracts, but chemical changes that occur in the lens over time likely play a role. By age 65, most people have some degree of lens clouding, although usually minor.
What are the symptoms?
The following symptoms might mean that a cataract is forming, although the only way to know for sure is to have a complete eye exam. See an eye doctor if you experience:
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cloudy, fuzzy, foggy or filmy vision
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changes in the way you see colors
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problems driving at night because headlights seem too bright
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problems with sun glare
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frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription
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double vision
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temporary better vision in previously farsighted people (second sight)
Prevent cataracts from developing
“There appears to be a correlation between smoking and cataract development, so that’s another good reason to quit using tobacco products,” says Donald Seibert, O.D., chief of optometry services at VA Medical Center in Huntington. “Ultraviolet [UV] radiation from the sun may also increase the rate of cataract progression, but wearing UV-blocking sunglasses will prevent UV light from reaching the crystalline lens.”
Surgical solution
Cataract treatment often involves only a change in eyeglasses in mild cases. However, surgery may be needed if impaired vision is affecting your ability to function.
Cataract surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. The crystalline eye lens is removed and replaced with an implant. Vision improves within a short time after surgery. Complications are rare but may include bleeding or infection.
Although cataract surgery is safe, patients and their doctors should consider surgery only if glasses or other aids do not help and the patient’s everyday functions are compromised significantly.
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