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A cataract is a
clouding of all or part of the normally clear
lens within your eye, which results in blurred
or distorted vision. Cataracts are most often
found in persons over age 55, but they are also
occasionally found in younger people.
No one knows exactly what causes cataracts, but
it is known that a chemical change occurs within
your eye to cause the lens to become cloudy.
This may be due to advancing age, heredity or an
injury or disease. Excessive exposure to
ultraviolet radiation in sunlight, cigarette
smoking or the use of certain medications are
also risk factors for the development of
cataracts.
Although
cataracts develop without pain or discomfort,
there are some indications that a cataract may
be forming. These include blurred or hazy
vision, the appearance of spots in front of the
eyes, increased sensitivity to glare or the
feeling of having a film over the eyes. A
temporary improvement in near vision may also
indicate formation of a cataract.
Currently, there
is no proven method to prevent cataracts from
forming. You can slow their progression by
protecting your eyes from the damaging UV from
the sun and stop smoking. During a
comprehensive eye examination, your eye doctor can diagnose a cataract and
monitor its development and prescribe changes in
eyeglasses or contact lenses to maintain good
vision.
If your cataract
develops to the point that it affects your daily
activities, your optometrist can refer you to an
eye surgeon who may recommend surgery. During
the surgery, the eye's natural lens is removed
and usually replaced with a plastic artificial
lens. After surgery, you will return to your
optometrist for surgical follow-up and continuing care.
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