What are Cataracts?

A leading cause of visual loss in older adults, a cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded. This can occur in one or both eyes, though it cannot be transferred or spread from one eye to the other. When the lens is obstructed by a cataract, it cannot focus properly on images, which results in objects appearing blurred or dull. This condition cannot be prevented or corrected by medication – the most effective way to treat a cataract is a through a surgery to completely replace the old, clouded lens with a new, artificial lens. For most patients, this surgery completely transforms their vision and dramatically improves their quality of life.

Symptoms

There are several common signs that a patient has developed a cataract, including:

• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Poor night vision
• Difficulty with glare — headlights, lamps or sunlight may appear too bright or a halo may appear around lights
• Double vision or multiple images in one eye
• Frequent prescription changes in your eyeglasses or contact lenses

A routine eye exam, performed by a primary eye care doctor, will reveal if a cataract is present. The primary eye care doctor can refer you to Dr. Harris for a comprehensive cataract evaluation at which time she will offer her expert opinion for treatment options.

Need a primary eye care doctor? Please visit the Affiliated Physicians page to help you find a doctor who works closely with our team.

Treatment Methods

Following a cataract diagnosis, there are several treatment options available to patients, depending on the severity of their cataracts.

Impaired vision resulting from an early cataract can sometimes be improved with a change in prescription of eyeglasses or contacts; however, once a cataract has begun to interfere with your everyday activities (reading, driving, etc.), surgery is the most effective method of treatment.

According to the National Institutes of Health, cataract surgery is one of the most common operations performed in the United States, in addition to being one of the safest and most effective types of surgery. An estimated 90% of patients experience better vision following cataract removal.

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