Information About Cataracts

Learn More About Cataracts

A cataract is a condition that will affect everyone at some point in their life. It is only a question of when not if. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens inside the eye. Over time, the lens cannot break down the waste products from the cells inside the lens, and that leads to a clouding of the lens. For the vast majority of people, this will happen later in life. Typically the signs and symptoms of a cataract are increasing glare at night, especially when driving, and a decrease in both distance and near vision that cannot be improved via an optical correction. 

There are three main types of cataracts: anterior cortical (the front type), nuclear sclerotic (the middle type), and posterior subcapsular (the back type). The front type and middle type are the more common types and usually occur in the later stages of life. The back type can sometimes be a result of side effects of different medications, i.e., long-term steroid use, chemotherapy, or trauma as well. Posterior subscapular cataracts usually develop more rapidly than the other types.

Cataracts are corrected with cataract extraction surgery. This surgery is the most successful surgery in the world, with hundreds if not thousands of successful surgeries performed daily. Luckily for patients, after cataract surgery, some will not need glasses or contacts to see distance anymore and just have to use reading glasses. Today surgeons also have different multifocal implant options for patients to choose from. Some of these options allow the patients to see distance and near without the need for glasses! The patient must choose with the help of their optometrist whether one of those implants is the best option for them.

Once a patient is diagnosed with a cataract, it is important to have yearly exams with the optometrist to monitor its progression because when it comes time to have the surgery, the patient and optometrist will have the best idea of what type of lens will work for the patient.

Are you concerned you may be developing a cataract? Find out for sure with a comprehensive eye exam from Weber Optiks. To schedule your exam, please contact us in Effingham, Altamont, or Mattoon.