Cataracts

All of us will develop some degree of cataracts in our eyes as we grow older.

The lens in the eye is an active organ that continually regenerates and is metabolically active. Over time, by-products build up in the lens and cause clouding resulting in a cataract. These changes are very gradual and may take years to develop. Most commonly, patients tend to be in their 50's or older.

Causes	most cataracts results from the normal aging process, but many times there can be other reasons for cataract development: Trauma Present at birth/congenital Prolonged used of steroids or other medications Diabetes Other inflammatory or metabolic conditions
Classification	Cataracts are classified according to their location in the lens: Cortical cataract: located in the outer periphery Nuclear cataract: located in the center PSC cataract: located on the posterior surface
Symptoms	Gradual, painless decrease in vision Double vision or distorted vision Glare from headlights or on bright days Difficulty reading Difficulty driving due to glare or blur No vision improvement with glasses adjustment
Diagnosis	A comprehensive dilated exam including refraction and bright light testing (BAT) is necessary to diagnose cataracts. Assessing the degree of cataract formation is important in deciding the next step.
Treatment	Currently, the only treatment for cataracts is surgery. Cataract surgery has undergone incredible changes over the last 20 years. It is now performed on an outpatient basis with a stitchless micro-incision technique that takes only 20-30 minutes.

You can schedule an appointment
with one of our doctors by calling:
512-472-4011 or 888-881-1599