What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens of the eye. This happens as a result of age, exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, and due to any genetic predisposition to cataracts. Cataracts can occur at any age – even at birth, but most everyone has some degree of cataract formation by the 7th decade of life. Even though most people develop cataracts, surgery is only necessary when poor vision makes it difficult to do the activities that we need and want to do and if vision cannot be improved with a new glasses prescription.

Cataract Symptoms Blurry or cloudy vision Colors are faded or dull Glare from the sun or headlights Poor night vision Double or multiple vision in one or both eyes Frequent changes in glasses prescription Other factors causing cataracts Diabetes Hypertension Smoking Eye injuries Alcohol abuse Rare metabolic diseases

Good Vision Vision with Cataracts

The good news is that cataract surgery is highly successful. The cloudy lens is removed by a procedure called phacoemulsification, and an intraocular lens (IOL) is placed inside the eye. Modern IOLs can provide clear vision and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses.

If you think you may have cataracts, please call Colorado Ophthalmology Associates and schedule an appointment for an eye exam