Everything you Wanted to Know about Cataracts: Cataracts 101

                                                                                         

A cataract is when your lens in your eye beings to cloud over. This is a common problem that comes with aging. The lens lies behind the iris and the pupil and works similar to a camera lens by focusing on incoming light. When a cataract is present, there will be a small clump of protein in the middle of the lens that causes cloudiness. Unfortunately, cataracts can continue to grow until it is next to impossible to see.

The Three Types of Cataracts and who is at Risk

Nuclear cataract occurs when the cataract is located on the centre of the lens. This is the most common type of cataract and usually forms as we naturally age. A cortical cataract starts on the outside of the lens and slowly works its way into the centre. Cortical cataracts are often present in those with diabetes. Subcapsular cataracts start at the back of the lens and work their way into the middle. For those with diabetes, farsightedness, and on steroids, this type of cataract could present itself.

Other people who may be at risk of cataracts include those who smoke or consume a lot of alcohol in their lifetime, those exposed to lead and air pollution and those who use major tranquilizers or diuretics for most of their life.

Symptoms of Cataracts

In most instances, cataracts form during your 40’s and 50’s. However, it isn’t until your 60’s that the cataracts begin to actually affect your vision. Here are some of the symptoms to be aware of:

• Faded color
• A yellowish or brownish color of your lens
• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Lights may give off too much glare
• Poor night vision
• Double vision
• Frequent need to change your eye prescription in your glasses or contacts.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of cataracts, it’s important to discuss your treatment options with your eye doctor.

About the author:
Do you suffer from blurred or cloudy vision? You may be affected by refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. Find out how LASIK eye surgery, PRK, and the placement of ICLs can improve your vision. Contact a Manchester cataract surgery center or Leeds LASIK center for further information.

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