Cataract
Aging is the Leading Cause of Cloudiness
A cataract is an opacification or cloudiness that develops within the lens of the eye.
Cataract development is a normal part of the aging process that most people experience at some point in their lives. The lens is a part of the eye that focuses light on the retina, and allows us to see things sharply. The lens also focuses at different distances, an ability that decreases with normal aging.
The lens functions best when we are younger because it is crystal clear and has the ability to focus on objects. As we age, the lens slowly turns cloudy and yellow, then brown, and sometimes becomes opaque and white. The lens also loses the ability to focus on objects.
Compare a cataract to a dirty window
Seeing through a cataract is like looking through a window that is never washed. As dirt accumulates, the window loses its clarity, until it is no longer possible to see through it. Similarly, our vision becomes gradually worse as a cataract continues to develop.
Vision Affected by Cataracts
Causes include injury, medication, diabetes
Age is not the only cause of cataracts. Trauma or injury to the eye, certain medications such as prednisone or cortisone, and medical conditions such as diabetes and other less common conditions can also cause cataracts. Sometimes, people are even born with cataracts. Cataracts present at birth may be small and harmless or may be large enough to interfere with vision.
A person with a cataract may notice problems such as blurred or distorted vision, glare from sunlight, headlights or other lights, or trouble focusing on things. When these symptoms begin to interfere with activities of daily living, removal of the cataract may be recommended.
Download our Cataract Surgery brochure here
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure during which the cloudy lens of the eye is removed and replaced with a clear lens implant. This procedure is usually performed with a local anesthetic and mild sedation. Cataract surgery is an insurance-covered benefit when one can no longer see well enough with glasses in order to perform normal activities of daily living. This insurance benefit includes a standard lens implant so that one can see again with glasses in order to perform normal daily activities.
