Cataracts are a clouding of the natural lens of the eye that is normally clear. For those with cataracts, cloudy lenses resemble a foggy or frosty window. Clouded vision from cataracts can make it more difficult to read, drive at night, or even recognize someone else’s face.
Most cataracts grow slowly and do not disturb vision early on. But with time, cataracts may begin to impede vision. At first, strong light and eyeglasses will help avoid cataract surgery. But if reduced vision restricts daily activities, a person might need Eye Cataract Surgery overland park ks. This surgery is a safe and effective procedure.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurred, or clouded vision
- Dim vision
- Problems with night vision
- Sensitivity to light, or glare
- Need for brighter lights for reading
- Haloes around lights
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
- Double vision in one eye
At the beginning, the cloudy vision caused by a cataract might affect just a small area of the eye’s lens and you might be completely unaware of any effect on your vision. But as the cataract grows it begins to cloud the whole lens and interfere with light that passes through the lens. This can lead to symptoms that are more noticeable. Some cataracts develop with age but other may be due to injury which can changes to the proteins making up the lens of the eye.
Other causes
Genetic conditions that are inherited that often cause other health problems such as risk of cataracts. Cataracts also can develop as part of many eye syndromes and diseases. Previous eye surgery can cause cataracts. Diseases like diabetes and atopic dermatitis can cause cataracts. Long-term use of steroid medications also can cause the development of cataracts.
When to see a doctor
If you have any vision changes, get an eye exam with a professional such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist. This is especially true if you experience sudden changes in vision like double vision, light flashes, unexpected eye pain, or headaches.
