What are the types of cataracts? No matter what type of cataract you have, the treatment is always surgery. Learn more about types of cataracts. Did you know? By age 80, most people either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations in the United States.
What are the symptoms of cataracts? Over time, cataracts can lead to vision loss. Am I at risk for cataracts? Your risk for cataracts goes up as you get older. What causes cataracts? Most cataracts are caused by normal changes in your eyes as you get older.
Learn more about what causes cataracts. How can I prevent cataracts? You can take steps to protect your eyes and delay cataracts. Wear sunglasses and a hat with a brim to block the sun. Quit smoking. How a cataract affects your vision Normal vision left becomes blurred as a cataract forms right. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Cataract. Merck Manual Professional Version. Accessed June 28, Mayo Clinic; American Optometric Association.
Jacobs DS. Cataract in adults. National Eye Institute. Cataract in the adult eye PPP. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Bakri SJ expert opinion.
Mayo Clinic. June 30, Related How a cataract affects your vision What a cataract looks like. Associated Procedures Cataract surgery Eye exam. Signs and symptoms of a cataract may include: Blurred or hazy vision.
Reduced-intensity of colors. Increased sensitivity to glare from lights, particularly when driving at night. Increased difficulty seeing at night. Change in the eye's refractive error, or eyeglass prescription. Diagnosis Cataracts are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. This examination may include: Patient history to determine if vision difficulties are limiting daily activities and other general health concerns affecting vision.
Visual acuity measurement to determine to what extent a cataract may be limiting clear distance and near vision. Refraction to determine the need for changes in an eyeglass or contact lens prescription. Evaluation of the lens under high magnification and illumination to determine the extent and location of any cataracts. Evaluation of the retina of the eye through a dilated pupil.
Measurement of pressure within the eye. Supplemental testing for color vision and glare sensitivity. Treatment Cataract treatment is based on the level of visual impairment they cause. Two approaches to cataract surgery are generally used: Small-incision cataract surgery involves making an incision in the side of the cornea the clear outer covering of the eye and inserting a tiny probe into the eye.
The probe emits ultrasound waves that soften and break up the lens so it can be suctioned out. This process is called phacoemulsification.
Extracapsular surgery requires a somewhat larger incision in the cornea so that the lens core can be removed in one piece. The natural lens is replaced by a clear plastic lens called an intraocular lens IOL.
When implanting an IOL is not possible because of other eye problems, contact lenses and, in some cases, eyeglasses may be an option for vision correction.
Prevention There is no treatment to prevent or slow cataract progression. While there are no clinically proven approaches to preventing cataracts, simple preventive strategies include: Reducing exposure to sunlight through UV-blocking lenses. Decreasing or stopping smoking.
Increasing antioxidant vitamin consumption by eating more leafy green vegetables and taking nutritional supplements. Researchers have linked eye-friendly nutrients such as lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc to reducing the risk of certain eye diseases, including cataracts.
For more information on the importance of good nutrition and eye health, please see the diet and nutrition section. Find a Doctor of Optometry. Slit-lamp exam. What Is Monovision or Blended Vision? Popular Cataract Answers Can cataract surgery affect depth perception? Video Answer How long will I have blurry vision and glare after cataract surgery? Is routine pre-operative medical clearance needed before cataract surgery? Why have I regained my balance after cataract surgery?
How is the lens power determined before cataract surgery? What are some of the risks associated with not having a cataract removed? Can I prevent or slow the development of my mild cataract? How long do I have to use the antibiotic eye drops after cataract surgery?
Is it safe to have an MRI after cataract surgery? Does marijuana help cataracts? Related Ask an Ophthalmologist Answers How is lens power determined before cataract surgery? What are the risks of not removing a cataract? What is the closest an IOL can be set for near vision? Can I wear non-prescription glasses after cataract surgery?
Find an Ophthalmologist. Advanced Search.
0コメント