A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye which leads to a decrease in vision. Cataracts are very common, especially among older adults. Most cataracts develop slowly and don’t disturb vision early on.
Cataracts are usually treatable with surgery. During surgery, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens.
Here are five things to know about cataracts:
1) Cataracts Is the Most Common Cause of Blindness
Cataracts are a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens, which can cause blurry or dim vision. Cataracts are usually painless and don’t cause redness in the eye.
Cataracts are a very common eye condition, affecting more people than any other serious eye condition. If you are having difficulty seeing clearly and think you might have a cataract, you should see an eye doctor.
2) You Can Get It at Any Age
While cataracts are most common in older adults, they can occur at any age. Congenital cataracts are cataracts that are present at birth or develop in infancy. Infantile cataracts are cataracts that develop before the age of 3. Juvenile cataracts are cataracts that develop between the ages of 3 and 18.
Cataracts can develop in anyone at any age, though there are certain risk factors that may make it more likely. These include things like high myopia, a history of eye trauma, diabetes, long-term use of steroid medications, smoking, obesity, alcohol abuse, high blood pressure and too much sun exposure. Additionally, if you have a family history of cataract, you may also be at risk.
3) You Have Higher Risk of Cataracts with Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the biggest risk factors for cataracts. Cataracts are two to five times more common in people with diabetes than those who don’t have diabetes. People with diabetes are also more likely to develop cataracts at an earlier age.
If you have diabetes, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels carefully and to visit your eye doctor regularly. If you notice any changes in your vision, be sure to see your doctor right away. With early detection and treatment, you can help to prevent diabetic retinopathy from progressing to blindness.
4) Your Cataracts May Not Develop All at Once
Cataracts occur when the proteins in your eye’s natural lens clump together, making your vision cloudy. It can take years for cataracts to develop. In fact, most people develop cataracts in both eyes, but they usually don’t affect vision in both eyes at the same time.
5) It Can Be Effectively Treated with Surgery
Cataract surgery is a very common and safe procedure. It is usually very successful at restoring vision. A large majority of people who have cataract surgery have significant improvement in their vision.
Cataract surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day. It is a very safe procedure and complications are rare.
Conclusion
Cataracts are a common condition that can lead to vision problems. There are many different treatment options available, and the best option may vary depending on the individual. Surgery is often considered the most effective treatment, but there are also nonsurgical options available.
If you are considering treatment for cataracts, Valley Laser Eye Centre can help you out. We are an Abbotsford laser eye clinic that will help ease any of your pain from cataracts. Get in touch with us today to learn how.
