Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Are you one of those people who complain that you cannot see properly because your vision appears cloudy? If the lens of your eye is cloudy, then you have cataracts. The cloudiness disrupts how light focuses onto the retina, causing blurred or hazy vision.
 

Causes of Cataracts

• Age-Related Changes

Growing older is the most common cause of cataracts. The proteins in your lens will begin to break down as you grow older. They then clump together and cause the lens to become cloudy. Age-related cataracts usually develop after the age of 60.

• Genetics

If your parents have or have had cataracts, then you have a greater chance of developing the same condition. If cataracts run in your family, there is a high chance that you will develop them at an earlier age.

• Eye Injuries

Injuries to the eye can lead to the development of cataracts. Even if the injury heals, it may lead to cloudiness in the lens. Sometimes, cataracts caused by trauma don’t appear until years later.

• Sunlight and UV Radiation

Individuals who spend many hours outdoors, exposed to sunlight and UV radiation, have a higher risk of cataract development.

• Other Health Conditions

If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, you have a higher chance of developing cataracts. People with these conditions often develop cataracts at an earlier age than those without them.
 

Symptoms of Cataracts

The symptoms here begin subtly but gradually worsen over time. Here are common signs to watch for:

• Blurred or Hazy Vision

Cataracts cause blurred or hazy vision. These will make it very difficult for you to see fine details. Reading texts and distinguishing between faces will only become more challenging over time.

• Difficulty Seeing at Night

Cataracts make it harder to see in low-light conditions. Night driving can become particularly challenging due to glare from headlights and streetlights.

• Sensitivity to Light

Increased light sensitivity, especially in bright sunlight, is common in cataract sufferers. This sensitivity will make it hard for you to see clearly in well-lit environments.

• Double Vision

If you have cataracts, don’t be surprised if you develop double vision in one eye. This can cause difficulty focusing on objects, making it frustrating to carry out daily activities.

• Frequent Changes in Prescription Glasses

If you wear glasses and are developing cataracts, your glasses prescription will change frequently. Cataracts affect how well corrective lenses work, leading to the need for constant adjustments.
 

Treatment Options for Cataracts

Cataracts are treatable, and the most effective treatment is surgery.

In the early stages, non-surgical treatments can help manage symptoms. Stronger eyeglasses or magnifying lenses can enhance your vision. These provide temporary relief while you continue your daily activities.

If the condition is advanced, then surgery is the best option. People experience significant improvement in vision after surgery, with a generally short recovery time.

Although cataracts cannot be prevented, specific lifestyle changes can help slow their progression.
 

When to See a Doctor

If you notice changes in your vision or experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see an eye care professional.

For a better understanding of cataracts, visit Brigham Eye Specialists at our office in Brigham City, Utah. Call (435) 734-2097 to book an appointment today.

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8589-cataracts-age-related

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353790