Studies show that cataract development is responsible for 51% of the reported cases of blindness worldwide. In the United States alone, approximately 24.4 million individuals are affected with this condition. Researchers predict that this number will increase up to 50 million by 2050. At Alderwood Optical and Canyon Park Vision Clinic, we believe spreading awareness about this disease and how to manage it is the best way to prevent these numbers from growing. Here, your expert optometrist shares some important facts about cataracts:
- Your eyes have natural lenses, which are mostly made up of water and protein. These structures mainly serve to focus received light on the retina.
- Increasing age, however, may hasten the rate of protein breakdown in your eyes. This may cause protein fractions to clump together and settle on your lenses’ surface, making your normally transparent lenses cloudy. This may lead to restricted light entry and limited visual capacity.
- Older individuals, specifically those aged 60 and above, are at a higher risk of developing cataracts. That said, your reliable eye doctor explains that some cataracts may also be acquired during childhood or at birth (congenital cataracts). They may occur as a complication of eye injuries (traumatic cataracts), other medical or eye diseases (secondary cataracts), or even radiation overexposure (radiation cataracts).
- During the early phase of cataract development, you may not notice any changes to your visual capacity. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience visual impairments that may reduce your overall quality of life.
- Affected individuals share that having cataracts is similar to looking through a dirty glass window or dusty windshield. Your vision may become blurry or hazy. You may also have poor night vision and heightened glare sensitivity.
Since most cataracts are results of the natural aging process, some may be irreversible. We generally recommend having your cataracts removed surgically. We will perform a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate the extent of your vision limitations. We’ll also explain everything you need to know, answer all questions you may have, and help you prepare for the surgery.
Once you’re ready, we’ll refer you to an experienced and trusted cataract surgeon to restore your visual clarity. After the procedure, you can count on us to provide reliable postoperative optical care for a quick and smooth recovery. We’ll also remind you when to return for your next eye checkup.
For more information about cataracts, call us at (425) 771-8472 for Alderwood Optical or (425) 485-0430 for Canyon Park Vision Clinic. You may also complete our form to schedule an appointment. We serve Bothell, Mill Creek, Everett WA, and nearby areas.