Clouding of the lens within the eye. It usually affects both eyes and causes glare sensitivity and blurred vision.

As we age, the normally clear crystalline lens within our eye can become yellow or opaque. Clinically significant cataract occurs when the patient is bothered by glare or blurred vision.

Risk Factors

Most cataracts are caused by age and progress slowly. The following risk factors can increase the chance or progression of cataract:

  Accumulated exposure to ultraviolet radiation

  Trauma

  Some diseases of the eye

  Systemic diseases such as diabetes

  Some medications

  Poor nutrition

Treatment and Management

In the early stages your optometrist will monitor your cataract(s). Often your vision can be improved by making a change in your eyeglass prescription. However, if the cataract progresses and causes a decline in vision a referral to an ophthalmologist for cataract surgery will be arranged by your optometrist.

Prevention and Detection

  Wear proper eye protection to minimize trauma or radiation exposure

  Wear sunglasses to protect against ultra violet rays

  Regular eye examinations by the optometrist