Cataracts

Identifying the Signs of Cataracts

Posted on October 14, 2010 Written by admin

There are many signs of cataracts that some patients ignore. Eventually, this problem will become so bad that it cannot be ignored. However, those who choose to live with it may be doing themselves an enormous disservice. Today, modern medicine has a few ways of dealing with this problem. In some cases, even a patient whose eye sight is greatly impaired can fully regain it with surgery. The first step is identifying the problem.

Prescription Changes

If you notice your eye glass or contact prescriptions seem to need updated more often than usual, you could be experiencing the signs of cataracts. As a cataract begins to form, it will start to blur and cloud vision. Some people think that their prescription needs updated, however as the problem grows, the prescription will need changed yet again. If you suspect this problem, speak to your doctor to find out if you are developing a cataract.

Altered Light and Night Vision

Cataracts influence the way your eyes take in and process light. This can result in lights that glare when they did not used to. Car headlights at night may seem different as well. Many patients describe a halo that seems to appear around light sources. The patient’s night vision begins to diminish as well.

Fading Colors

Other signs of cataracts include the changing of the way the patient sees colors, or rather doesn’t see them. Cataracts can cause colors that were once vibrant to fade. Some patients notice a yellowing of colors rather than a fading. When any of these signs of cataracts is present, the patient should see medical advice quickly. Treatment can help slow the progress of cataracts.

Cataracts Causes and Treatment Options

Posted on October 14, 2010 Written by admin

There are many cataracts causes that can affect almost anyone. This common vision problem can stem from a number of factors, from age and health to occupation. Even children can develop a cataract. In order to better understand the problem and possible treatment options, it is important to first know what possible cataract causes may exist in your situation.

Family History and Personal Health

Family history and personal health can lead to many cataracts causes. For example, a family history of cataracts could indicate a hereditary problem. Personal health is another concern because an unrelated condition can sometimes cause cataracts as a side effect. Diabetes has been linked to the development of cataracts in many cases.

The Changes of Age

Age can lead to other cataracts causes. This is perhaps one of the most commonly found causes. No one can escape the effects of time. As we grow older, our body’s functions and organs begin to slow and age with us. In the eye, the lens can thicken and lose flexibility. When this happens, a cataract may form that can eventually lead to total blindness if not treated.

Occupational Concerns and Substance Exposure

Some people are at a greater risk of certain cataracts causes based on their occupation or exposure to certain substances. A link has been found between cataract development and patients who worked as airline pilots for long periods of time. This is believed to happen due to radiation exposure. Others believe that ultraviolet light is another cause. Lead exposure is also listed as one of the many cataracts causes. In some cases, these problems could be avoided or their risk lowered with certain precautions.

Cataracts in Children

Posted on October 14, 2010 Written by admin

Cataracts in children can happen, although they do not happen very often. For a parent, this can be a very frustrating and upsetting situation. Many people do not understand how cataracts form in children, let alone how to treat them.

The Age Myth

Cataracts are most commonly associated with elderly individuals, and rightfully so. This condition frequently appears with age. However, that doesn’t mean it can only develop in older people. Cataracts in children can form because of a hereditary condition or because the natural lens of the eye did not form correctly. Eye trauma can also lead to the development of a cataract.

When Should Cataracts in Children Be Treated?

Babies and children are still growing and even a slight alteration can have dire consequences. The timing of treatment for cataracts in children really depends on the individual case. Children should be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible to determine what needs to be done. Waiting can have permanent consequences. Babies are constantly developing, and a cataract can hinder the strengthening of eye sight. Untreated, the child can grow up with impaired or no vision.

What Do Cataracts in Children Look Like?

In a baby, a cataract may not look quite the same as it does in an adult. The condition may appear like a small white spot in the pupil. Checking for cataracts in children is a part of the examination physicians perform while the infant is in the nursery. As soon as any abnormality is identified, the child should be examined and a treatment found. Even in cases where the eye is physically repaired, the brain can hinder the child’s ability to see because it was done too late.

Types of Cataracts

Posted on October 14, 2010 Written by admin

There are different types of cataracts that can bring with them different symptoms. Patients should understand which type they are suffering from in order to find the best way to treat the problem. Cataracts fall into three main categories, which are determined based on the location of the cataract. All three are found on the lens of the eye, but in different areas.

Subcapsular Cataracts

Among the types of cataracts, the subcapsular category can develop and mature the fastest. This type is located at the back of the eye’s natural lens. Health conditions and medications, such as diabetes and steroids, can often lead to subcapsular cataracts. Patients should talk to their physician about the risk and how to handle it.

Nuclear Cataracts

Considered one of the most frequently diagnosed types of cataracts, the nuclear cataract is found at the center of the lens. This variety can make it very difficult to see, especially when looking over long distances. Nuclear cataracts are often caused by the inevitable effects of aging. Patients with advanced cataract formation may be eligible for surgery to regain their eye sight.

Cortical Cataracts

Cortical cataracts form along the outside edge of the eye’s natural lens. Much like subcapsular, Cortical cataracts are frequently formed as a result of diabetes. Although it may sound like the least intrusive among the types of cataracts, cortical cataracts will eventually work their way inward to the center of the lens.

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