As we age, our bodies undergo a variety of changes. One of these changes is cataracts, when healthy clear eye lenses become cloudy, resulting in reduced and blurred vision. The majority of individuals with cataracts are over 60, so as you age it is a good idea to take note of any blurriness or cloudiness in your vision and make an appointment with your optometrist immediately. A comprehensive eye exam will be able to accurately diagnose cataracts.
Cataracts typically occur as a result of the aging process, but can also be the result of eye injuries, genetics or diseases. Cataracts form when the proteins in the eye's lens begins to degrade and becomes cloudy, and the formation of cataracts can be sped up by excessive exposure to UV light. You can help prevent the formation of cataracts by wearing UV blocking sunglasses and ensuring you eat a variety of fruits and vegetables so that your eyes stay healthy.
In some cases cataracts can be treated through the use of corrective lenses, though this is typically only possible if cataracts are detected early on. For more severe cases of cataracts surgery will be required to improve the patient's vision. Cataract surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one. Since artificial lenses do not contain proteins they will not cloud like organic lenses will. In some cases individuals may opt to undergo lens replacement surgery before cataracts have a chance to form, particularly if they have a family history of cataracts. Artificial lenses can also correct for vision, which means they can replace prescription glasses.
To book your next appointment call us today at 403.286.4884.
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