Cataracts Awareness Month: Have You Booked Your next Eye Exam in Troy, AL?

A surprising number of adults aren't aware that cataracts affect over 20.5 million Americans over the age of 40. In fact, more than half of adults above age 65 have some amount of cataracts.

What is a cataract?

A cataract is when the ocular lens becomes clouded. The clouding prevents the transmission of light needed for eyesight.

Signs of cataracts

Cataracts can often be mistaken as normal age-related sight decline, yet there are certain characteristics to look for that distinguish them. Depending on the type of cataract, symptoms include slightly hazy vision, sensitivity to sun light or artificial light or a decrease in color vibrancy. Some cataracts show no signs until they are more advanced while others may even result in a temporary improvement in near vision called ''second sight''.

Cataract comes from the Latin cataracta defined as ''waterfall''. This may be because the appearance of white opacities in the lens are similar to the white cloudy rapids seen in a waterfall. Cataracts that develop as a result of aging usually show an initial cloudiness in the lens, followed by swelling and shrinkage of the lens leading to a total opacity and loss of sight.

Preventing and Treating Cataracts

Researchers have not yet determined surefire ways to prevent the development of cataracts but some say that guarding your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses can reduce cataract development. Some studies indicate that antioxidants and reduced consumption of salt can also play a role in prevention.

During the early stages, eyeglasses can be used to correct vision loss, nevertheless, at some point vision may deteriorate enough to require surgery. Cataract surgery is in fact the most frequently performed surgery in America and is typically a success. Generally, the surgeon takes out the lens and implants what is called an intraocular lens (IOL) made of plastic. For nine out of 10 patients, vision is restored to between 20/20 and 20/40.

Don't let vision diseases go untreated. A yearly eye exam is advised for every adult, particularly those over 40. Contact our Troy, AL optometry practice today to schedule an appointment.