A cataract is a clouding of all or part of the normally clear
lens within your eye (behind the iris, the colored part of the eye), which results in blurred or distorted vision.
Cataracts are most often found in persons over age 55, but they are
also occasionally found in younger people. Contrary to what some think, cataracts are not a growth or tumor, or a film on the surface of the eye; it is simply when a normally clear structure inside the eye becomes cloudy or hazy.
No one knows exactly what causes cataracts, but it is known that a
chemical change occurs within your eye to cause the lens to become
cloudy. This may be due to advancing age, heredity or an injury or
disease. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation in sunlight,
cigarette smoking or the long-term use of certain medications are also risk
factors for the development of cataracts.
Although
cataracts develop without pain or discomfort, a person may notice some symptoms of a developing cataract. These include blurred or
hazy vision, "starbursts" around lights at night, increased
sensitivity to glare or the feeling of having a film over the eyes. A
temporary improvement in near vision may also indicate formation of a
cataract.
Currently, there is no proven method to prevent cataracts from
forming. During a comprehensive eye examination, your optometrist can
diagnose a cataract and monitor its development and prescribe changes
in eyeglasses or contact lenses to maintain good vision.
If your cataract develops to the point that it affects your daily
activities, your optometrist can refer you to an eye surgeon who may
recommend surgery. During the surgery, the eye's natural lens is
removed and usually replaced with a plastic artificial lens. Some new technology in cataract surgery includes lens implants which can focus for reading as well as distance; ask your optometrist about these exciting innovations. After
surgery, you can return to your family optometrist for continuing care.
