Cataracts: Live to See Each Day

Cloudy, blurry vision might mean you have cataracts. Cataracts are the result of protein building up in the eye that blocks clear vision. Light is not able to pass clearly to the eye like it used to. This condition is much more common in older adults, especially those over age 60. 

There are 4 types:

1. Congenital cataracts occurs when a baby is actually born with cataracts. They might also form in early childhood. The baby might have experienced an infection, poor development, or injury to the eye while in the womb.
2. Secondary cataracts are the result of a medical condition, most commonly diabetes.
3. Traumatic cataracts are the result of an injury.
4. Age related cataracts form in older adults. Persons who have had eye surgery are more susceptible. 

Other triggers of cataracts include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, chronic exposure to sunlight, and excessive alcohol use.

The lens where a cataract forms is found right behind the iris of the eye (the colored part). This part of the eye helps to focus light. As we age, these lenses become less flexible and thicker. The tissues of the lens start to break down and clump together, which forms the "clouds" on the lens of the eye. The cloudiness develops over time. As this happens, light becomes partially blocked and vision becomes blurred, colors can become less vivid too.

When cataracts form, symptoms will include disruption to your vision. You will see colors differently, and vision might be blurry, cloudy, or foggy. Double vision might occur. Nearsightedness is common. Your regular eyeglasses or contacts might not seem to be effective anymore. When you go see your eye doctor, he or she will dilate the pupil to check the lens of the eye. Sometimes your glasses or contacts can be corrected to help the problem. If not, surgery might be necessary. Luckily, surgery is quick and common, and you are home the same day. Research states that more than 95% of people who have cataract surgery see better that very day.

This vision impairment mostly occurs with age. It is important to have regular eye exams at least every 2 years. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes. Since they develop over time early detection is important. Maintaining eye health is important and can be aided by a healthy diet, including nutrient-filled fruits and vegetables. Other preventative methods include wearing sunglasses, not smoking, and reducing alcohol use. We want to live to literally see each day, so don’t cloud your health and take the scenery we are surrounded by for granted.

Sources:

https://nei.nih.gov/content/nei-charts-clearer-future-cataract-prevention-and-treatment

https://www.cataractresearch.org/

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-cataract-surgery 

https://www.preventblindness.org/millions-americans-have-cataract 

https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery-cost.htm