Cataracts
Cataracts are a common cause of age-related vision loss. In 2004, it was estimated that 20.5 million Americans older than age 40 had a cataract in one or both eyes, and that number is expected to grow to 30.1 million by the year 2020 as the U.S. population continues to age.
But here's some good news: In most cases, vision loss caused by cataracts can be fully restored with cataract surgery.
A cataract is clouding of the normally clear crystalline lens inside the eye. This lens is located directly behind the pupil and iris (the colored part of the eye) and, along with the clear front surface of the eye (cornea), it focuses light entering the eye to form images on the retina, which begins the process of vision.
The clouding that occurs in the lens with cataract development appears to be associated with oxidation of lens proteins. The underlying cause cataracts is unknown, but one risk factor appears to be excessive exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. This is why it's important to choose quality sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection.
It is unclear whether cataracts can be prevented, but some research suggests wearing UV-protective sunglasses and making sure your diet includes plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables might lower your risk of cataract formation.
Most cataracts are discovered during a routine comprehensive eye exam that includes pupil dilation. When your pupil is dilated, your eye doctor can examine nearly all of the lens to determine if cataract development is taking place.
If a cataract is present and is affecting your vision, your eye doctor will refer you to a cataract surgeon for a consultation.
Cataract eye surgery is a two-step process. First the surgeon inserts a small ultrasonic probe into the eye to break up the cloudy lens into small pieces, which are then removed from the eye with gentle suction through a small incision. When the cataract removal is finished, the surgeon then implants a clear intraocular lens (IOL) in the eye to replace the natural lens.
In many cases, people can see well for driving and other distance vision tasks after a cataract operation without the need for prescription eyeglasses. There are even special multifocal IOLs and accommodating IOLs (Crystalens) that can reduce the need for reading glasses after cataract surgery.
The success rate of modern cataract surgery is very high and most people are very pleased with their vision after surgery. For the best outcome, choose an experienced cataract surgeon and carefully follow all post-operative instructions you are given to insure a speedy recovery from your surgery.
Also, even though most premium IOLs used in cataract surgery today block ultraviolet light, continue to wear quality UV-protective sunglasses after cataract surgery to reduce glare and to protect the surface of your eyes and the delicate skin around your eyes from sun damage.
For more information on cataracts and cataract surgery, visit All About Vision.