Cataracts are a common cause of vision loss, especially as one gets older, but the good news is that they are treatable. It is important to have regular visits with your ophthalmologist to make sure your eyes stay healthy as well as prevent disease and other conditions.
Cataracts are the hardening and clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens. The only way to be certain if you have cataracts is through a a dilated eye exam from your ophthalmologist. This is important to do because cataracts are part of the aging process, so everyone is at risk. By the age of 75, around 70% of people will have cataracts. Other factors besides aging that increase risk of developing cataracts consist of diabetes, family history, smoking, previous eye injury, and extensive exposure to sunlight. Cataracts are treatable through cataract surgery.
Symptoms of Cataracts:
- Double vision within one eye
- Colors seem faded or yellow
- Painless clouded, blurry or dim vision
- Sensitivity to light and glare, seeing halos around lights
- Need for brighter light for reading and other activities
It is very important to properly diagnose and treat cataracts and other eye conditions. For more information and educational programs about eye conditions, contact your ophthalmologist or visit Cleveland Sight Center.
