Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the natural lens in our eyes, which is meant to be clear, becomes cloudy and causes blurry, hazy, or less colorful vision.

Causes

The most common cause of cataracts is age as the proteins within the lens breaks down over time. However, cataracts can also occur in children due to a genetic predisposition, a metabolic disorder, and trauma.

Treatment

Regardless of age, early detection and prompt treatment results in more positive outcomes for your eyes and vision. Cataracts are diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. Your doctor will examine your cornea, iris, lens and other areas of the eye through slit lamp and retinal exams in order to identify abnormalities. These tests, along with refraction and visual acuity tests that test the sharpness and clarity of your vision, are used to diagnose cataracts. Once a diagnoses is made, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you, including possible lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, as well as surgery.

Cataract surgery is required to remove cataracts. During the surgery, the cloudy lens is removed from your eye and replaced with an artificial lens to restore vision.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment to determine your individual eye health and create a treatment plan that works best for you and your family.