Are you having trouble seeing? Is your vision blurry or cloudy? If you're over 60, you probably have a cataract. Younger people get them, too, but they're more common in older adults.
A cataract is where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and makes vision blurry. It is typically caused by a change in the proteins of the lens. The lens in your eye works just like the lens in a camera, focusing light on the back wall (called the retina) for clear vision. A cataract blocks and bends some of the light which changes the ability to focus.
Cataracts can cause everything from slight blurriness and near-sightedness to double vision, trouble seeing at night or even blindness. The good news is that your eye doctor has many different tools for treating cataracts, and chances are good for restoring your vision.
Besides aging, cataracts can be caused by genetics (some babies are born with cataracts), as well as other medical conditions such as diabetes or exposure to toxins. There can be many different causes, but aging is the most common. Smoking, air pollution and heavy drinking can also increase your chances of getting cataracts.
Cataracts are easy for your eye doctor to diagnose. The doctor will dilate your eyes and do an exam that may include taking pictures of your eyes. Glasses or contacts can correct your vision with cataracts, but if it gets worse, your doctor may recommend cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery is now the most common surgery performed by eye surgeons. It is estimated that nearly 4 million Americans have cataract surgery each year.
Cataract surgery is done on an outpatient basis, meaning you will go home the same day. The surgeon will remove your natural lens and replace it with an artificial lens that matches your natural vision.
According to the National Eye Institute, more than 90 percent of patients who get cataract surgery say they can see better afterward.
If you are having trouble seeing clearly, or suspect you may have cataracts, call UT Health Ophthalmology for an appointment at 210-450-9400.
Learn more about cataracts on our website by clicking here.
