About Cataracts
Another condition of our aging eye is known as cataracts. This condition occurs when the crystalline lens of our eyes (which is situated behind the “color” part of the front of our eyes) becomes “cloudy” thereby creating “cloudy” or decreased vision. This may be a gradual change over time and therefore not clearly noticeable. Cataracts may affect one eye more than the other.
Other causes of cataracts include ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or other sources, corticosteroids, diabetes, family history, smoking, previous eye injuries, inflammation, surgery or may be congenital. Cataracts will be noted, discussed and monitored at your regular eye health and vision examination.
Two common questions that arise are: "how do I know when my cataracts are 'ripe'?" (or when my cataracts might be ready to be taken out) and "can my cataracts grow back?" We monitor cataract changes and advise as to whether these changes are visually significant cataracts. Even if not affecting your ability to see the eye chart clearly, the cataract may be bothersome enough to you to discuss further options with us. And we also monitor for any subsequent change after cataract surgery to determine if any other procedure may be necessary.
If the need arises, you will be informed as to procedures involved so that you may best choose a course of action to achieve your best vision. Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgical procedure in the U.S. and has an excellent prognosis. Post-operative cataract care is provided by our doctors in our office.
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