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What is a Cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of a transparent part of your eye called the lens. The normally clear lens focuses light onto the retina, located in the back of the eye. When the lens becomes cloudy and opaque, light cannot pass to the retina. The result is blurry or cloudy vision.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
In addition to fuzzy or hazy vision, you may notice frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription, decreased color perception, a sensitivity to bright light, haloes around bright light, and poor night vision. Some or all of these symptoms may occur in varying degrees. Cataracts may develop quickly over a few months or slowly over a period of years. In many cases, both eyes will be affected, but not necessarily at the same time.
What causes cataracts?
The aging process is most directly associated with cataracts. As the body ages, the normally transparent lens begins to harden and becomes cloudy. There is increasing evidence that lifelong exposure to ultraviolet light contributes to the formation of cataracts. Over half of all people age 65 or older have some degree of cataract development. In addition, eye injuries, certain medications, diabetes, kidney disease, and high blood pressure may also contribute to the formation of cataracts. And, infants and newborns can develop cataracts as a result of heredity or disease.
How do I know if I have a Cataract?
At the ZION EYE INSTITUTE, you will receive a thorough eye examination to determine the health of your eyes, visual function, and the amount of cataract development. Tests are conducted to measure glare and contrast sensitivity; night, color, and peripheral vision; distance and reading vision. Your cataracts can be documented photographically, and the hardness can be objectively measured. With this complete diagnosis, you will acquire an understanding of your particular situation and of your treatment options.
Zion Eye Institute is dedicated to providing the highest quality eye care to patients in Southern Utah, Nevada and Northern Arizona.
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