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What is a Cataract How common are cataracts? Am I at risk for developing cataracts? Are cataracts hereditary? What if I suspect that I have cataracts |
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A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens, which blocks or changes the passage of light into the eye. The lens of the eye is located behind the pupil and the colored iris, and is normally transparent. The lens helps to focus images onto the retina - which transmits the images to the brain. Your vision may become blurry or dim because the cataract stops light from properly passing through to your retina.
How common are cataracts?
Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness among older adults in the
United States. More than 20 million Americans age 40 and older have
cataracts. More than half of all Americans have cataracts by the time
they are 80 years old. Cataracts can also sometimes be found in young
people or even newborn babies.
Am I at risk for developing
cataracts?
The exact cause of a cataract is unknown. Most often, a cataract is
part of getting older. As you age, you are at greater risk of developing
a cataract.
Are cataracts hereditary?
It is not known if a family history predisposes you to an increased
risk of developing cataracts. It is prudent to follow routine examinations
if you have a family history of eye problems.
What if I suspect
that I have cataracts?
You should see a doctor outside of your periodic eye exam routine if
you develop any of the visual aberations asscocitaed with cataracts.
Because Cataract surgery is so advanced using state-of-the-art ultrasound
technology and is an outpatient proceedure, we recommend that you consider
surgery when you begin to experience vision loss.