What is a Cataract?
A cataract is clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. Board certified ophthalmologist Samuel Boles, M.D. likes to compare cataracts to the clear plastic window on a convertible car.
“Just like the little plastic window in the back of a convertible, the natural lens inside the eye can become cloudy after many years of natural exposure to the sun and through the normal aging process,” said Dr. Boles.
There are three categories of cataracts:
- Subcapsular Cataract: Beginning in the back of the lens, subcapsular cataracts are most common among those with diabetes, high farsightedness, retinitis pigmentosa, or those taking high doses of steroids.
- Nuclear Cataract: The most common form of cataracts, nuclear cataracts forms in the nucleus, the center of the lens, as a result of natural aging.
- Cortical Cataract: Forming in the lens cortex and gradually extending its spokes from the outside in, cortical cataracts are most common in people with diabetes.
What causes Cataracts?
Cataracts are usually caused by age, when the protein in the lens may start to clump together and cloud a small area of the lens. No one knows for sure why this occurs, however, several studies claim that exposure to ultraviolet light could be to blame.
Are Cataracts Common?
Simply put, yes. Nearly 50% of all adults will develop cataracts by the time they turn 65 years old.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cataracts?
Common cataract signs and symptoms include:
- Blurry sight
- Double vision
- Halos
- Difficulty driving at night
- Colors may become faded
- Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions
If you feel as if you may be suffering from one or more of these symptoms, you should schedule an eye exam at your earliest convenience. Early detection is the key to slowing or even stopping the spread of cataracts.
What is the Treatment for Cataracts?
If cataract symptoms persist and become bothersome, surgery may be your best option. Cataract surgery is a quick outpatient procedure, taking just about 10 minutes (not including pre and post-op preparation). Cataract surgery involves removing the damaged lens and replacing it with a new synthetic one.
Best of all, cataract surgery has the highest success rate of any surgery practiced today. And recovery is a breeze. Most patients can resume their normal, everyday function in very little time and can even drive a few days after surgery.
Where can I have my Cataracts treated in Maryland?
Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma and cataracts, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers complete ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or seeking surgical treatment, our state-of-the-art treatment center can meet all your eye care needs.
To learn more about Cataracts, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
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