Inside the middle of your eye, there is a natural lens that is kind of like an onion: there are many layers within it. Over many years, changes to the lens can create cloudy lens fibers, which is what we call a cataract. When patients are viewing the world around them through a cataract, items may appear hazy, blurry, and/or less colorful. There are many different kinds of cataracts and they look different when we look at them through the slit lamp at your comprehensive eye exam.
Each eye has its own closed system. Most often cataracts are very similar in their clinical appearance for each eye but it is possible for them to be asymmetric. Because the cataract in one eye might be more developed than in the other, there could be a marked difference in vision.
In addition to the vision changes noted above, other symptoms of cataracts include:
While cataracts are a common condition associated with aging, there are other risk factors that could increase your chances of developing them or having them appear earlier in your life.
Risk factors include:
While cataracts are a part of the natural aging process, there are still a number of strategies you can implement that could help slow their progression or prevent them from developing earlier in your life.
The sun’s powerful ultraviolet rays can contribute to the development of cataracts. When you’re out in the sun, make sure to wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA AND UVB rays (sometimes known as UV 400) as well as a broad brimmed hat. Especially have these on if you’re out on a body of water, as the water will reflect up to 80% of the light back onto your body and your face.
Eating a healthy diet that consists of lots of vibrantly colored vegetables and fruits can help you maintain a healthy weight while also providing your eyes with the vitamins and minerals they need. The more vibrantly colored it is the more anti-oxidants and polyphenols it will contain which help push back against oxidative stress (which is what changes the cellular structure in your body!) If you drink alcohol frequently or in excessive amounts, cut back or stop altogether. Smoking can also have a detrimental effect on your eyes’ health for a number of eye diseases. Quitting is a choice you have to further reduce your risk factors for eye diseases.
During the early stages of the disease, the changes in vision associated with cataracts can often be addressed by adjusting the prescription for your glasses. When this strategy to clear your vision is no longer working and it’s impacting your daily activities then cataract surgery is often the next step. We don’t do cataract surgery here but will refer you to a great cataract surgeon (when it’s appropriate).
A definitive diagnosis of cataracts can only be at an appointment with an eye doctor. We will automatically look at the lens as a part of your ocular health assessment during your comprehensive eye exam. We’ll comment if there are any beginning signs of development of cataracts and review where you’re at in the process. Schedule an appointment online or call 952-898-4088.
Are you ready to up-level your eye care experience? Reach out to Advanced Eye Care Professionals for more information about our services. We’re happy to help!
