Getting older is inevitable. As we age, our bodies go through many changes, such as loss of muscle mass, metabolism slow down, and worsening of vision

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts cause the eye’s natural lens to become cloudy, which causes the patient’s vision to become blurry. This can make it difficult for people to read, drive and perform routine tasks.

The three most common types cataracts include:

  1. Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract: This forms in the nucleus of the eye lens.
  2. Cortical Cataract: A cortical cataract is depicted as by the whiteness that develops on the edge of the eye lens
  3. Posterior Subscapular Cataract: This cataract forms in the back surface of the eye lens. Despite there being multiple forms of cataracts, there is no difference in the symptoms.

Causes of Cataracts

In many cases, simply getting older can cause cataracts to form. However, there are other external factors that can eventually lead to cataracts. For example, diabetics and patients who have had extensive eye surgery may develop cataracts.

Common Cataracts Symptoms

Since cataracts develop slowly over time, many patients attribute their loss of vision to getting older. While it’s true that our vision may change over time, there are tell-tale symptoms of cataracts.

Signs of cataracts include the following:

  1. Sensitivity to light
  2. Double vision in one eye
  3. Seeing a halo in one eye
  4. Frequent need to change eyeglass prescription

What Happens If Cataracts Aren’t Treated

In general, cataracts do not cause visual problems early on. However, if left untreated, cataracts can significantly impair vision and even cause blindness. Exploring your options for cataract surgery in Boynton Beach is the first step to preserving your vision.

When first diagnosed with cataracts, brighter lighting and a stronger eyeglass prescription can temporarily improve your vision. But if you’re unable to perform activities of daily living, you may need surgical intervention.

South Palm Eye Associates knows how precious your eyesight is. If you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts, schedule an appointment with our skilled eye surgeons today by calling 561-737-4040!