A cataract is a loss of transparency, or clouding, of the normally clear lens of the eye. As one ages, chemical changes occur in the lens that make it less transparent. This occurs in everyone. The loss of transparency may be so mild that vision is hardly affected, or so severe that no shapes or movements are seen, only light and dark. When the lens gets cloudy enough to obstruct vision to any significant degree, it is called a cataract. Glasses or contact lenses cannot sharpen your vision if a cataract is present.
People at risk for developing cataracts are over 55 years old, have had eye injuries or disease, diabetes, have a family history of cataracts, smoke cigarettes or use certain medications. There is no pain associated with cataracts, but there are several symptoms that indicate that the decreased quality of vision is due to cataracts, including:
Is there anything that I can due to reduce my risk for cataract formation? Reducing the amount of ultraviolet light exposure by wearing a wide-brim hat and |
sunglasses may reduce your risk for developing a cataract, however once developed there is no cure except to have the cataract surgically removed. An outpatient surgical procedure can remove the cataract. The time to have the surgical procedure is when your vision is bad enough that it interferes with your lifestyle. That is when Dr. Hogue or Dr. Gourley will remove the cataract, and in most cases, implant an intraocular lens (IOL).
The Eye Physicians of Edmond Regional Eye Associates will meet with you and diagnose your condition to help determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs. Cataract surgery is a very successful operation. Over 3 million people have this procedure every year in the United States and 98% have a successful result. It is among the safest surgical procedures you can have, however, as with any surgical procedure, complications can occur during or after surgery and some are severe enough to limit vision. In most cases, vision, as well as quality of life, improves. |