A cataract is the clouding of the lens in the eye that blurrs vision. Most cataracts are related to aging and are more common in older people and occur in either or both eyes. It cannot spread from one eye to the other. The lense lies behind the iris and the pupil. It works like a camera lens by focusing light onto the retina in the back of the eye, where an image is recorded much like the film in a camera. The lens focuses light, letting us see images both up close and in the distance.
The lens is made mainly of water and protein, arranged in a way that keeps the lens clear allowing light to pass through it. As we age some of the protein may clump together and cloud areas of the lens. This is a cataract. As we age over time the cataract may grow larger and clound more and more of the lens reducing the quality of the images we look at. Research suggests there are several causes, such as smoking, exposure to ultra-violet light and diabetes, to mention a few.
Most cataracts are related to aging but there are other types: traumatic cataract - cataracts can develop after an eye injury, sometimes many years later; Congenital cataract - some babies are born with cataracts or develop them in childhood. These may be so small they do not affect vision. If they do, the cataract is removed; secondary cataracts - cataracts can form after surgery for other eye problems like glaucoma or diabetes; radiation cataract - cataracts can develop after exposure to some types of radiation.
Cataracts are detected through a comprehensive eye exam that includes: visual acuity testing, dilated eye exam, tonometry. Your NewSight doctor of optometry can make a determination during your exam and offer clear alternatives for how you can best resolve your vision issues. Our doctors can provide you professional care and guide you in making the best decision for your life style needs.
Stay tuned for additional follow ups on the surgical process and technologys available for those who have cataracts.
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