Cataracts: What You Need to Know
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What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts develop when proteins in the lens break down and clump together, blocking or scattering light. There are several possible causes besides age.
These include:
- Aging is the most common, natural changes in the lens result in clouding over time.
- Eye injuries, inflammation, or previous eye surgery.
- Medical conditions such as diabetes.
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medications.
These include:
- Congenital cataracts present at birth or developing in early childhood.
- Radiation exposure.
Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts can affect vision in various ways, often starting subtly and worsening gradually.
Common symptoms include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision.
- Difficulty seeing at night or requiring more light to see.
- Increased sensitivity to glare or seeing halos around lights.
- Colors appearing faded or yellowed.
- Double vision in one eye.
Cataracts usually do not cause pain, eye redness, or sudden vision loss, if you have these symptoms, see an eye doctor promptly.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop cataracts, but certain factors increase the likelihood.
These include:
- Age over 60 years.
- Family history of cataracts.
- Diabetes, prior eye injury, or long-term steroid use.
- Excessive sun exposure without eye protection.
- Smoking or high alcohol consumption.
How Are Cataracts Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist, often a cataract surgeon.
These may include:
- Visual acuity testing (eye chart).
- Slit-lamp examination to view the eye structures in detail.
- Retinal exam after pupil dilation.
How Are Cataracts Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of vision impairment and its effect on daily activities.
Options include:
- Updated eyeglass prescription.
- Brighter lighting at home.
- Anti-glare sunglasses for outdoor use.
If vision loss significantly interferes with daily life, surgery offers a safe, effective solution. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear intraocular lens.
Surgery timing is individualized, many people wait until cataracts reduce quality of life. Your cataract surgeon will guide the decision.
How Can You Slow Down Cataract Development?
While cataracts cannot be completely prevented, certain habits may delay progression.
Helpful steps include:
- Wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) light.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables packed with antioxidants.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use.
- Manage other health conditions such as diabetes.
- Schedule regular eye exams, especially after age 40 or with risk factors.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Prompt evaluation ensures timely treatment and protects long-term vision.
Seek care if you have:
- Blurry vision, increased glare, or halos around lights.
- Difficulty with reading, driving, or other daily activities.
- Eye pain, flashes of light, sudden vision changes, or new floaters.
Personal, Trusted Cataract Care at Alden Leifer, MD and Associates
At Alden Leifer, MD and Associates, our board-certified ophthalmologists provide safe and effective cataract care with a supportive, patient-first approach. We serve families across Paterson, Hawthorne, Clifton, Teaneck, Bergen, Fair Lawn, Garfield, and surrounding areas. If you or a loved one notice cloudy vision or difficulties with daily activities, contact our team. We will guide you through options, answer questions, and provide compassionate care so you can see great till 98 and beyond.