More than 22.3 million Americans currently have cataracts, making it one of the most common health issues in the country today. Additionally, more than half of all Americans have cataracts by the time they are 80 years old
For some, cataracts are a frightening prospect due to their prevalence and potential to affect the way we see them. However, while they are a leading cause of blindness, cataracts are also very treatable! So, to help our patients see this vision issue for what it is, we're exploring and explaining this vision issue in honor of Cataract Awareness Month:
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens that can result in a change in vision. As the clouding develops, it either completely blocks or simply changes the passage of light into the eye via the lens.
As a result of this blockage, the retina - which sends information to the brain via the optic nerve - does not receive clear information from the lens. Instead of seeing the world clearly, your vision becomes blurry, all because the retina and brain cannot process and project a clear picture for you to see.
There are different types of cataracts:
- Age-related cataracts, which typically occur after the age of 60
- Congenital cataracts, which are present at birth or develop during childhood.
- Traumatic cataracts , which develop as a result of an eye injury.
- Secondary cataracts, which can form after surgery for other eye problems, such as glaucoma.
Common cataract symptoms include:
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Seeing 'halos' around lights
- Fading or yellowing of colors
Why Do We Get Cataracts?
The exact cause of a cataract is unknown. We do know that as you age, you are at a higher risk of developing a cataract. We also know from research that long-term exposure to UV rays from the sun, illnesses such as diabetes, some medications, genetics, some eye injuries, and smoking can all increase your chances of developing a cataract.
The potential influences on cataract development are so varied that if you are worried about them, it's best to discuss them with your doctor. This will allow you to address any specific risk factors that come up in your own lifestyle and medical history.
Can We Prevent Cataracts?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent cataracts at this time. However, there are things we can do to reduce our risk of getting them:
- Eat right. A healthy diet has been linked to a lower risk of many eye diseases, including cataracts. A healthy diet includes five to nine daily servings of fruits and vegetables, at least three daily servings of 100 percent whole grains each day, and two servings of fish each week, if possible. Ideally, this diet will be low in fried, processed, and sugary foods.
- Quit Smoking. Smoking has been linked to a number of eye problems, as the chemicals that come with this habit produce toxins within our bodies. If you're struggling to quit smoking, consider talking to a doctor about tools and resources that can help!
- Wear sunglasses and hats. UV rays contribute to your risk of cataracts. Blocking those rays and reducing your eyes' exposure to them is one way you can reduce your risk of developing blurry vision.
- Control your blood sugar. People who have diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts than people who don't. Controlling your blood sugar can minimize its effects and help to reduce your risk of developing cataracts.
- Regular eye exams. Regular visits to your eye doctor can help detect cataracts early and ensure they are properly managed. This is especially important for adults over 60, as this age group has a higher risk of developing cataracts.
How Are Cataracts Diagnosed?
During an eye exam, your doctor may perform several tests to diagnose cataracts, including:
- Visual acuity test: This test measures how well you see at various distances.
- Slit-lamp exam: A special microscope is used to examine the front of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens.
- Retinal exam: Your doctor will use an ophthalmoscope to view the back of your eye and check for signs of cataracts.
What Should I Expect If I Get A Cataract?
Firstly, know that your doctor will provide you with an in-depth review of your individual case should you develop a cataract! Every case is different and is treated as such. There are, however, some things that you are likely to experience should you need to address a cataract.
You may initially be able to combat the symptoms of your cataracts with simple adjustments, such as wearing new eyeglasses or improving the lighting in your home and office. Our team, in particular, considers this very early on when cataracts develop. Only when the symptoms become so severe that they interfere with your day-to-day life (i.e., affecting important tasks like reading and driving) will surgery be recommended.
Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens (also called an intraocular lens, or IOL). Should you need surgery, your doctor will guide you through the process of booking the procedure, assuming you decide that surgery is right for you. If the time doesn't seem right for surgery, you will not suffer any long-term damage from delaying the procedure.
Choose Everett and Hurite for Your Cataract Needs!
Cataracts are a common vision issue that can be caused by various factors, such as age, UV exposure, and diabetes. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent cataracts, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and controlling certain risk factors can help reduce the chances of developing them.
Still have questions? At Everett and Hurite, we aim to provide our patients with treatment plans that they are comfortable with. Contact us and set up an appointment if you have questions about your cataract risk, or if you are looking for opinions on how to address your cataracts at this time. Our team is ready to help you make a decision that best addresses your needs and your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is natural lens replacement an option for treating cataracts?
Yes, natural lens replacement (also known as refractive lens exchange) is a treatment option for cataracts. This involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens to improve vision. However, this procedure may not be suitable for everyone and should be discussed with your doctor.
Can a cortical cataract be inherited?
Yes, a cortical cataract can be inherited. Genetics and family history can influence cataract development, especially nuclear cataracts. If a close relative had a nuclear cataract, your risk may increase. However, other factors like age and lifestyle habits also play a role. Discussing family history with your doctor helps identify individual risk factors.
What is the difference between cataracts and glaucoma?
Cataracts and glaucoma are two different eye conditions. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye, while glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss. However, both cataracts and certain types of glaucoma can be age-related and may coexist in some individuals.
