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Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide and can be treated with modern surgical techniques most of the time. Over 2 million cataracts and lens implant surgeries take place in the USA successfully restoring vision in over 95% of the cases. If you live long enough, you will get cataracts. Cataract is an aging process similar to getting gray hair, not a disease.
- Cataract is not a film or growth over your eyes
- Cataract is not caused by overuse of your eyes
- Cataract does not cause irreversible blindness
- Cataract does not have to be develop or "ripe" before it can be removed
A natural and clear lens inside your eyes helps focus light and allows images to be seen sharply. As the eye ages, the natural lens slowly becomes cloudy. As the lens becomes cloudy, light cannot pass through easily and the images become blurry. The cloudy lens is a cataract.
There are other causes for cataract or acceleration of the cataract process:
- Medical problems such as diabetes
- Eye injuries
- Unprotected exposure to sunlight, specially in high altitudes (ultraviolet radiation)
- Steroids and other medications
- Family history
- Smoking. Studies indicate that smokers are twice as likely to develop cataracts.
- Painless blurring of vision
- Glare and light sensitivity
- Frequent eyeglasses prescription changes
- Difficulty in driving in bright sun light and at night
- Glare from lights at night
- Need of brighter light to read
- Colors start fading or yellowing
Cataract surgery should be considered when you feel that your cataracts are interfering with your ability to live your desired lifestyle or perform daily activities. If you like golfing but have problems seeing the ball, driving at night but glare bothers you, or any other activity you enjoy but your vision is interfering with your ability to perform, call us and you and Dr. Smith can decide when and if surgery is appropriate for you. Cataract surgery is an elective surgery and some of your symptoms can be relieved through something simple as changing your glasses.
Dr. Smith uses the most advanced techniques and equipment when performing cataract surgery. Several options of intra-ocular lens (IOL) implants are available. ReSTOR® and ReZoom™ lens implants allow you to see clearly at all distances without the need for bifocals or reading glasses. Call us and schedule an appointment to see if you are a candidate for this exiting new technology.
Click here for more information on ReSTOR® and ReZoom™ lens implants.
For more information, we recommend the National Eye Institute Cataract Resource Guide
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