Cataracts

It is estimated that 24.4 million people in America have cataracts. It is unknown how many people have cataracts and do not know it, since cataracts start long before you start noticing any symptoms. This is why it is so important to receive regular eye exams. If you live in or around Midland, Odessa, or Andrews, and it has been a while since your last eye exam, contact Urias Eyecare.

Cataracts

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is like a cottony cloud on the lens of your eye. Your eye needs a clear lens to process light. There are different types of cataracts, but they all do the same thing.

Cataracts Cause Blindness

Cataracts are the world’s leading cause of blindness. Once you get a cataract, the clock is ticking. Cataracts never get better on their own. They will likely become progressively worse until you are blind in that eye. The clouding gets so thick that it can even be seen to change the color of your eye.

Causes of Cataracts

A cataract is formed because the material in your lens breaks down. Just what causes the breakdown varies. It can be caused by:

  • Old age
  • Injury to the eye
  • Eye surgery
  • Genes
  • Using steroid medication for years
  • Certain health conditions, especially diabetes

Risk Factors for Cataracts

Your cataracts will grow faster if you:

  • Smoke
  • Drink excessively
  • Don’t control your diabetes
  • Don’t wear sunglasses on bright days

Early Warning Signs of Cataracts

You will not see any difference when a cataract starts. However, it does have a noticeable change when your eye doctor gives you a dilated eye exam to look at your eye’s anatomy.

Symptoms of Cataracts

When you finally notice the cataracts, they will change your vision:

  • Everything will be slightly blurry, even if you get your glasses or contacts changed
  • You may have double vision in the affected eye
  • Colors will appear less colorful but may appear more yellow or light tan
  • You won’t be able to drive at night because lights from the other cars will blind you
  • You will need more light to see
  • Light may become too painful to tolerate
  • Lights will be adorned with bright rings or halos

Treatment for Cataracts

There is only one treatment for cataracts, eye surgery by an eye doctor. This procedure replaces your cloudy lens with an artificial lens that can never get a cataract. This is an outpatient procedure that helps the vast majority of the people who get it.

Schedule an Eye Exam at Urias Eyecare

Eye exams help detect conditions like cataracts before the symptoms first appear. If you live in Midland, Odessa, or Andrews, contact Urias Eyecare to schedule an appointment with Dr. Urias. Call our team today at (432) 368-4102 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.

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Monday
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Saturday
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Sunday
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