June is Cataract Awareness Month
A cataract is a clouded lens , which blocks the passage of light into the eye. The lens of the eye is located behind the pupil and the colored iris, and is normally transparent. Vision can become distorted from the cataract stops from light from passing through to the retina.
Cataracts can be easily diagnosed and visiting your eye doctor regularly is important for protecting your eyes from further damage. An annual eye exam is recommended for anyone over 60 years old and a bi-annual exam for adults 41- 60 years old.
Risk factors: Aging, diabetes, family history, excessive UV or sun exposure, smoking, obesity, eye injury, high blood pressure, steroid use, past eye surgery.
Symptoms:
- Clouded, blurred, dim vision
- Increasing difficulty with night vision
- Fading or yellow colors
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Need for brighter light for activities such as reading
- “Halos” around lights
- Changes in eye glasses prescriptions
