Cataract is a clouding of the whole or parts of our lens

The lens becomes yellow and cloudy as the cataract matures

Cataracts occur as part of the normal aging process. It can be compared to a window that is frosted or fogged with steam. Studies show that virtually everyone over age 65 has some cataract formation in their eyes. Cataracts can severely reduce your vision. At one time, cataracts were a leading cause of reversible blindness in the world. But today, most of the cataracts are successfully treated. Modern surgical techniques, intraocular lens implantation and "same day surgery" make cataract surgery safe, fast and effective.

A cataract occurs when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy. As the cataract develops, the cloudiness no longer allows the lens to properly focus light on the back of the eye. This unfocused light causes the vision to look blurry or hazy. Development of cataracts are commonly associated with age, Diabetes, trauma, medications such as steroids, family history, long term exposure to ultraviolet radiation, previous eye surgery and others. There is no proven or FDA approved medication available at this time to prevent or treat cataracts.

The symptoms of cataract include: a painless blurring of vision; glare or light sensitivity; frequent eyeglass prescription change; double vision in one eye; poor night vision; starbursts and halos around headlights; fading or yellowing of colors. Most cataracts develop slowly, but the progression may vary between individuals and even between eyes. In a few eyes, especially in younger and diabetic patients, the cataract may progress rapidly over a few months. It is not possible to predict exactly how fast cataract will develop or grow in any person.

Treatment is indicated when decreased vision affects your everyday activities or hobbies. To determine how much your vision is decreased, your doctor may perform different tests to determine how much your everyday vision has been affected by the cataract and whether you are a good candidate for cataract surgery.