Cataracts
Cataracts obscure the normally transparent lens of an eye, making it become cloudy or opaque. They prevent light from reaching the retina, which impairs vision.
Cataracts Overview
Presbyopia occurs when the lens of the eye loses its elasticity and ability to change focus, diminishing close-range vision. Presbyopia often sets in as people reach their mid-forties and occurs even when corrective measures for other conditions, such as LASIK, have been performed.
Normal Eye: In a normal eye, the lens is almost transparent allowing light to reach the retina without obstruction.
Cataract: When the lens turns opaque and does not allow light to reach the retina adequately, it is called a cataract. Eyeglasses will not improve vision.
Symptoms of Cataracts
People with cataract experience the following symptoms:
- Reduced vision
- Glare
- Dulling of colors
- Occasional double-vision
Possible Causes of Cataracts
Cataracts develop as a normal part of the aging process. Other contributing factors may be:
- Other eye diseases
- Systemic diseases, such as diabetes
- Medications
- Heredity
- Ultraviolet light
Treatment of Cataracts
Because glasses cannot eliminate the symptoms of a cataract, surgery to implant an intraocular lens (IOL) is the only effective treatment. A revolutionary advance in the types of lenses used in cataract surgery now provides more options for improving your range of vision. Several types of IOL implants including monofocal, multifocal, and accommodating lenses are available to reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses after surgery.
Benefits of Cataract Surgery
Learn more about cataracts and cataract surgery.