Cataracts will likely happen to you. Most of us will develop a cataract, but at different ages. Similar to grey hair, we are all likely to develop a cataract, but at different age
In general, cataract formation is the result of the normal aging process. Certain conditions and diseases, however, may cause cataracts to form at an earlier age.
When we are born, the natural lens is clear and transmits light to the surface of the retina. The retina is the light sensitive tissue which lines the inside of the eye. Images are transmitted from the retina to the brain, producing vision.
As cataracts develop, the natural lens starts to cloud and changes the quality of the light received by the retina. Initially, early cataract formation causes mild blurring of vision and simple changes in your prescription may improve your vision. As the cataract progresses, more clouding occurs causing more symptoms, such as:
- Cloudy, blurred, dim vision
- Difficulty with night vision
- Glare, especially with oncoming headlights
- Halos around lights
- Need for increased lighting to read
- Frequent change in glasses (or contact lens) prescription
- Fading or poor color vision
Not every cataract causes all the symptoms listed above. If you have any of these common symptoms of cataract, we encourage you to see your eye doctor for a comprehensive eye examination. Other eye diseases can cause similar symptoms.
In most cases, cataracts are a result of the normal aging process. It will happen to almost everyone with time. The prevalence of cataracts is near 100% by age 80.
Certain diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, cause cataracts to form at an earlier age. Congenital disorders often produce cataracts at an earlier age.
Other risk factors of cataract formation include trauma, previous retinal eye surgery, excessive exposure to sun, smoking, obesity and chronic use of steroids.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, consult your eye doctor.
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