Understanding cataracts
What is a cataract?

A cataract is a “clouding” of the eye’s natural lens, which results in blurred or defocused vision. Cataracts are often described as looking through wax paper or cloudy cellophane. According to a recent article published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, more than 20 million adults in the U.S. have developed cataracts making it the number one cause of poor vision in the United States. In most cases cataract surgery is required where the natural lens is replaced with a man made lens often referred to as IOL or intraocular lens. This surgery is highly successful and has been drastically improved over the years.

What causes a cataract?

Cataracts are caused mainly by age, trauma, heredity, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation.Cataracts can also occur as a result of eye disease, after the use of certain medications, or as a result of medical conditions such as diabetes.

• Getting Older - Age is a major cause of developing cataracts.
• Birth defect like abnormal conditions in the eyes of unborn babies
• Environmental factors such as disease, toxic chemicals, medications
• Accidents or Injuries
• Exposure to ultraviolet light
• Cigarette Smoking

Symptoms of cataracts

If a cataract is making it difficult for you to carry out your normal activities most doctors may suggest cataract surgery. Even if your visual acuity isn't severely affected, you might want cataract surgery to remove a cataract that's causing problems with glare or double vision.