There are different ways in which cataracts can develop. Some cataracts begin in the center of the lens and are immediately noticeable. Others may creep slowly from the edges of the lens and eventually take it over. Still some may develop behind the lens.
Cataracts affect vision in two main ways. They can change the power or prescription of your eye, and they can block or distort the light coming into the eye. Initially, merely changing your eyeglass prescription may be beneficial. But eventually, when they become too dense, it will need to be removed.
What Are Common Causes of Cataracts?
Cataracts develop due to a variety of different conditions. One of the most common causes is aging, but they can also develop due to injury or other health problems that damage the tissue that makes up the lens of the eye. Diabetes is one such condition, as high blood sugar causes swelling in the eyes that can damage vital components that affect your vision. Less common causes are complications due to previous surgeries or the prolonged use of steroid medications.
When Is It Time for Cataract Surgery?
Cataracts typically develop over time, slowly growing and eventually taking over the eye lens with cloudy, damaged tissue. The lens sits behind the colorful iris of your eye. It helps to focus your eyes, so you can see detail in images. As a cataract forms, it becomes thicker and less transparent. Tissues of the lens begin to break down with age, combining and becoming a cloudy speck on the lens.
At first, you may not realize any changes to your eyesight as the cataract may be too small to notice. It’s time to see South Palm Eye Associates’ eye doctors when you begin to notice:
- Worsening eyesight
- Increased sensitivity in the eyes
- Blurred vision
- Other symptoms related to your vision, such as halos around lights
Cataract surgery is necessary once your clouded vision prevents you from performing your activities of normal daily living easily, comfortably, enjoyably and safely. This includes when they affect your ability to drive, read a book, recognize differences in facial expressions, or other sights you were once able to see without difficulty.
Contact the Eye Experts at South Palm Eye Associates for Cataract Surgery in Boynton Beach
When you’ve determined with your trusted eye doctors at South Palm that cataract surgery is the next logical step in your treatment plan, we’ll discuss your lens options to help you choose which is best for you. We offer the new Tecnis Symfony lens, as well as the Tecnis multifocal lenses. Also available are Crystalens, Toric lenses for astigmatism, ReSTOR, and other options based on your lifestyle and needs. For more information on these and other options, call the eye surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Kasten in Boynton Beach at 561-737-4040 to schedule your consultation today.