Cataracts

What are cataracts?

A cataract refers to a cloudy region in the lens of your eye, which is the transparent part that aids in focusing light. As you age, cataracts become increasingly prevalent. In fact, over half of all Americans aged 80 and above either have cataracts or have undergone surgery to remove them.

Initially, you may not realize that you have a cataract. However, as time progresses, cataracts can cause your vision to become blurry, hazy, or less vibrant. You might find it challenging to read or perform other daily tasks.

Eventually, cataracts can result in vision impairment.

The positive aspect is that surgery can effectively eliminate cataracts. Cataract surgery is a safe procedure that addresses vision issues caused by cataracts.

What are the types of cataracts?

The majority of cataracts are age-related — they occur due to the natural changes in your eyes as you grow older. However, cataracts can also develop for other reasons, such as following an eye injury or after surgery for another eye condition (like glaucoma).

Regardless of the type of cataract you have, surgical intervention will be necessary for treatment.

Did you know?

  • Cataracts can develop in one eye or both, but they do not transfer from one eye to the other.

  • By the age of 80, most individuals either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery.

  • Cataract surgery ranks among the most frequently performed operations in the United States.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

In the early stages, you may not experience any symptoms when cataracts are mild. However, as they progress, cataracts can lead to noticeable changes in your vision. For instance, you may observe that:

  • Your vision appears cloudy or blurry

  • Colors seem washed out

  • Night vision is impaired

  • Bright lights, such as lamps, sunlight, or headlights, appear overly intense

  • You perceive halos around lights

  • You experience double vision (this may sometimes resolve as the cataract enlarges)

  • You frequently need to update your glasses or contact lens prescription

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your eye doctor, as they could also indicate other eye conditions.

Am I at risk for cataracts?

Your likelihood of developing cataracts increases with age. You are also at a heightened risk if you:

  • Suffer from certain health conditions, such as diabetes

  • Smoke

  • Consume excessive amounts of alcohol

  • Have a family history of cataracts

  • Have experienced an eye injury, undergone eye surgery, or received radiation treatment to your upper body

  • Have spent significant time in the sun

  • Use steroids — medications prescribed for various health issues, including arthritis or allergies

If you are concerned about your risk for cataracts, discuss it with your doctor. Inquire if there are measures you can take to reduce your risk.

What causes cataracts?

Most cataracts develop due to the natural aging process of your eyes.

When you are younger, the lens in your eye is clear. Around the age of 40, the proteins within the lens begin to break down and cluster together. This aggregation forms a cloudy area on your lens, known as a cataract. Over time, the cataract worsens, causing an increasing portion of your lens to become cloudy.

How can I prevent cataracts?

You can take proactive measures to safeguard your eyes against cataracts:

  • Shield your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to block sunlight.

  • Protect your eyes from injuries. When engaging in activities such as using power tools or participating in certain sports, wear protective eyewear to prevent accidental injuries to your eyes.

  • Quit smoking. If you are ready to stop, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) for complimentary support.

  • Make eye-healthy dietary choices. Consume a variety of nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.

How will my eye doctor check for cataracts?

An eye doctor can assess for cataracts during a dilated eye examination. If you are 60 years or older, it is advisable to have a dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years. The procedure is straightforward and painless — your doctor will administer eye drops to dilate (widen) your pupil and then examine your eyes for cataracts and other potential issues.

What’s the treatment for cataracts?

Surgery is the sole method to eliminate a cataract, but you may not need to undergo surgery immediately.

  • Home treatment. In the early stages, you might manage cataracts with minor adjustments. You can:

    • Use brighter lighting at home or work

    • Wear anti-glare sunglasses

    • Utilize magnifying lenses for reading and other tasks

  • New glasses or contacts. A new prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses can enhance your vision in the early stages of cataracts.

  • Surgery. Your doctor may recommend surgery if your cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, or watching television. During cataract surgery, the doctor removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a new, artificial lens (also referred to as an intraocular lens, or IOL). This procedure is highly safe, and 9 out of 10 individuals who undergo it experience improved vision afterward.

Discuss your options with your eye doctor. Most individuals do not need to rush into surgery. Delaying surgery typically does not harm your eyes or complicate the procedure later on. Consider these tips:

  • Inform your doctor if cataracts are hindering your daily activities

  • Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor

  • Ask your doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of cataract surgery

  • Encourage family members to get screened for cataracts, as they can be hereditary