More than 50 percent of Americans age 80 and older develop cataracts, an eye disease caused by the eye’s clear lens becoming cloudy or opaque, which causes a decrease in vision. Over time you may notice difficulty reading and seeing things. Your vision may be blurry or hazy, making it difficult to read and perform everyday tasks.
Age-related cataracts typically develop in people between 50 and 60 because the lens hardens over time. If left untreated, it can cause blindness. There are two types of cataracts: nuclear and cortical. They are named for the location where they form in the lens. Nuclear cataracts develop at the center of the lens, while cortical cataracts form on the outside layer.
Damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays can increase your risk of developing cataracts. Protect your eyes and lessen your chance of developing cataracts by wearing sunglasses and limiting exposure to UV light.
Cataracts are also caused by diabetes. Studies have shown a direct correlation between cataract development and elevated blood glucose levels. Therefore, people with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and have regular checkups so that their eye doctor can watch for any changes in their vision.
Cataracts can be caused by genetics. Other causes include obesity, prolonged steroid use, eye disease, injury, and smoking.
Glasses, contact lenses, or surgery can correct vision loss caused by the development of cataracts. Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed today. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens.
Cataract surgery is a quick and safe procedure. The ophthalmologist will remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial lens.
Sight loss due to cataracts occurs over a long period of time and often goes undetected. Common symptoms include blurry or foggy vision, dull colors, poor night vision, halos around lights, sensitivity to bright lights, an increased need for more light to read, a film over your eye, and glasses no longer enable you to see or read clearly.
Eye exams can help detect cataracts in their early stages of development. In addition, regular eye exams will help to prevent vision loss. For assistance, contact us online at New Vision Eye Center or call 772-257-8700 for more information or to schedule a consultation with a world-class eye care team member.