Definition, Causes and Symptoms of Cataracts

A cataract is the progressive clouding of the lens of the eye, which prevents light from passing through to focus on the retina. While it may take years or decades to develop, cataracts will gradually blur or diminish vision.

While the most common cause of cataracts is aging -- between the ages of 50 and 65, the chance of having a cataract is about 50 -- cataracts can also be caused by genetics/family history, medical problems or diseases, previous eye injury or surgery, medications such as steroids, or long-term, unprotected exposure to sunlight.

Symptoms include increased sensitivity to light (such as experiencing glare or a halo effect), needing brighter light for reading, or having poor night vision. Frequent changes of your eyeglasses prescription may also be a symptom as well as double vision in one eye or the fading or yellowing of colors.

Our No-Needle, No-Stitch, Small Incision Approach to Cataract Surgery

The development of cataracts cannot be prevented or reversed. Because cataracts can be slow-growing, a thorough eye exam may show that all you need to treat cataract development is a change in your eyeglasses prescription. If, on the other hand, a cataract is advanced enough to affect your vision while performing everyday tasks, surgery may be required.

Modern cataract surgery is a quick out-patient procedure in which the cloudy lens is broken up, suctioned out, and replaced with a clear intraocular lens. Ninety-five percent of patients undergoing this new "no-needle, no-stitch, small incision" procedure experience improved vision and very little post-op discomfort.

Don't Take Chances with Your Vision

If you've been experiencing any of the symptoms above, book an eye exam with BayCare's Green Bay Eye Clinic right away. Remember: While cataracts are treatable, they are still a serious condition for vision loss. Don't take any chances with your vision.

For more information on conditions of the eye and our various corrective procedures to treat them, be sure to view our Eyemaginations Library, a 3-D guided tour of your eyes, how they work, and the various eye conditions and treatments you should know about.

For all your eye care needs, from contact lenses and glasses to the latest in LASIK laser eye surgery, contact BayCare's Green Bay Eye Clinic today to schedule an appointment.