Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness in America. Cataracts are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye. Symptoms of cataracts can include slightly blurred vision and sensitivity to glare. The longer cataracts go untreated, the more difficult they are to repair with surgery and the more likely they will result in loss of vision. Fortunately, cataracts do not have to be left untreated.
June is Cataract Awareness Month and the American Academy of Ophthalmology wants to remind the public that early detection and treatment of cataracts is critical to preserving your sight.
The normally clear lens of your eye can begin to cloud over time. Think of cataracts impairing your vision the way frost can keep you from seeing out your windshield in the winter. Your vision is not entirely blocked at first, but images may appear cloudy. This is especially true at night or in low light scenarios.
The lens in your eye; which is located behind the iris, becomes stiffer over time. Therefore, the lens also becomes less transparent and tissues within the lens can begin to clump together. These clumps begin clouding small areas within the lens.
If you find yourself needing more light in order to read or you begin seeing halos around lights, you could be experiencing symptoms of cataracts. Double vision in a single eye and the fading of colors are also signs that cataracts are present.
Although more lighting and prescription eyewear can help for a period of time, the only fix for cataracts is reparative surgery. Cataract surgery is a very safe and effective procedure.
Cataracts Can Affect Different Parts of The Lens
Cataracts that affect the center of the lens can cause nearsightedness at first and then may cause an inability to distinguish between colors as they worsen. When cataracts begin to form on the edges of the lens, they may not be causing any symptoms and may be only be discovered through a dilated eye exam. Some people are even born with cataracts as studies have shown them to be genetic in some cases.
Make a point this June to address your eye health and determine if cataracts may be the culprit behind issues with your vision. A licensed eye doctor will be able to comfortably determine the presence of cataracts by performing a routine eye exam and will know how to best correct your vision if necessary. To make an appointment, call Palmetto Eye & Laser Center at 864-583-6381 or find more info about our cataract center by visiting our website.
