972-772-2644 Cataracts Home » Eye & Health Disease » Cataracts A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye that leads to a decrease in vision. Left untreated, it is the most common cause of blindness and is conventionally treated with surgery. Vision loss occurs because opacification of the lens obstructs light from passing through and being focused on to the retina at the back of the eye. What Causes Cataracts? The most common cause of cataracts is biological aging and overexposure to ultraviolet light. The lens lies behind the iris and pupil and works to focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye. The rest of our eye structures work together to adjust and transmit images to the brain, which allows us to see objects and colors. The lens is made of mostly water and proteins. The protein stays aligned in a way that the lens remains clear. As we age, this protein can clump together and become opaque. Much like trying to look through a foggy window, the clouding is what causes blurriness and difficulty seeing and is called a cataract. While there is no guaranteed way to avoid cataracts, wearing eyewear and sunwear that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays can slow the onset as well as decrease the exposure to direct sunlight. People with cataracts commonly experience difficulty in appreciating colors and changes in contrast, driving, reading, recognizing faces, and coping with glare from bright lights. Treatment Options Treatment for cataracts is safe and effective. The most common form of treatment is surgery. In fact, by age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract, or have cataract surgery. Cataract surgery replaces the lens inside an affected eye and restores your clear vision. Other treatment may be possible, but cataract surgery is common and very helpful for many people. If you have questions about cataracts or other eye health conditions, please call our office or speak with our staff at your next appointment. Learn more about other threats to your vision and how annual eye exams check for symptoms by watching our video. Eye Resources Cataract Surgery Eye Exams How the Eye Works Interactive Eye Introduction to the Eye Multifocal Intraocular Lens Implants Contact Lenses Orthokeratology The Right Age for Contacts Types of Contact Lenses Lenses & Frames Blue Light and Eye Health Eyeglass Frame Materials High Definition Lenses No Glare Lenses Progressive Lenses Proper Lens Care Instructions Protective Eyewear Reduce Digital Eye Strain Scratch Protection Sunglasses Thinner and Lighter Lenses Eye & Health Disease Blepharitis Cataracts Conjunctivitis Diabetic Retinopathy Dry Eye Syndrome Eye Allergies Glaucoma Macular Degeneration Retinal Tears and Detachments Vision Therapy Contact Us 2931 Ridge Rd Suite 109 Rockwall, TX 75032 972-772-2644 2021 © InnexusOptometry Websites by Privacy Policy | Accessibility