Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
WHAT IS A CATARACT AND WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
If you have a cataract, you are not alone. Cataracts are extremely common and can occur at any age. A cataract is cloudiness in the lens of the eye that can impair vision. With age, the proteins in the lens of the eye begin to break down and this causes the cataract. As the cataract develops, the opacity no longer allows the lens to properly focus light on the back of the eye, causing impaired vision.
HOW IS CATARACT DIAGNOSED? An eye doctor can diagnose cataracts. Usually, the doctor will dilate the pupil and examine the lens using a special microscope to determine whether a cataract is present. WHAT CAUSES CATARACTS? Cataracts are most often related to age but other factors that can contribute to cataract formation include: CAN A PERSON BECOME BLIND IF CATARACT SURGERY IS DELAYED? Although vision can become severely impaired from advanced cataracts, vision usually can be restored after cataract surgery is performed. However, removing a dense cataract from the eye can be more difficult and the recovery time may be longer. In some circumstances, advanced cataracts can induce secondary glaucoma and uveitis , and then the pain may be very severe. WHAT IS A LENS IMPLANT AND WHY IS IT USUALLY RECOMMEMDED? After cataract is removed, the eye lacks the lens that is needed to focus light. To restore this function, a plastic lens implant (also known as an intraocular lens) is inserted. Without an implant, very strong glasses would be necessary in order to have clear vision.
• Heredity
• Certain medications
• Previous eye surgery
• Injury or inflammation.
• Over-exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
• Cigarette smoking
