What is a Traumatic Cataract?

A cataract occurs when there is a buildup of proteins in the lens, creating protein clumps, which obscure normal vision. These clumps, or deposits, prevent light from passing clearly through the lens, causing images to appear cloudy or blurry, especially at night.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cataracts affect nearly 22 million Americans age 40 and older. And by the age of 80, more than half of all Americans will have a cataract. It’s a natural part of the aging process. However, a cataract can form for a number of different reasons besides age. Another common cause is trauma to the eye – blunt or penetrating ocular trauma, electric shock, chemical burns, or ionizing radiation.

Understanding a Traumatic Cataract

Approximately 2.5 million eye injuries occur annually in the United States, according to Medscape. A traumatic cataract may present itself as an acute, subacute, or late sequela of ocular trauma. Signs and symptoms of cataracts include:

Blurry sight, and occasionally, double vision
‘Halos’ — the eyes become dazzled by bright light, making night driving difficult
Colors may become faded
Eyeglasses prescription changes frequently

If you feel you may be experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor – optometrist or ophthalmologist – as soon as possible. The good news: cataracts – even traumatic cataracts – are very treatable. In fact, cataract surgery is the most frequently performed operation in the United States, with a 98% success rate. This painless outpatient procedure involves removing the clouded lens and, in most cases, replacing it with a clear, intraocular lens implant (IOL).

Cataract Surgery in Annapolis

Dr. Boles utilizes the LenSx® Laser, the most technologically advanced option for cataract patients today, to create a cataract surgery that’s 100% unique to each patient. Under local anesthesia, Dr. Boles will make a small incision on the side of your cornea and use ultrasound vibrations to break the natural lens into small pieces. These fragments are removed and replaced with an IOL.

Most patients can resume their normal, everyday function in very little time and can even drive a few days after surgery.

Schedule an Appointment

Anne Arundel Eye Center always welcomes new patients.

If you have any questions about Traumatic Cataract Surgery, please contact Dr. Boles, Dr. Kathryn Gurganus Turner, and the eye care specialists here at AAEC by calling 410-224-2010. AAEC is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma and cataracts, and our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.

And don’t forget to take a look at our previous blog posts while you’re at it!