August is National Cataract Awareness Month

Learn to Recognize the Most Common Cause of Blindness in the World

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cataracts are the leading cause of visual loss in Americans 65 and older. Nearly half of adults by age 80 will develop cataracts, or clouding of the lens. This month, learn how to recognize the symptoms, find treatment, and educate others on this common (but treatable) eye condition.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, the same part of the eye responsible for focusing light and enabling you to see sharp and clear images. The causes for developing cataracts include eye injury, previous eye surgery, a high salt intake, long-term unprotected sun exposure, and family history of cataracts.

Symptoms

According to emedicineheath.com, the most common symptoms of cataracts are:

- clouded or blurry vision

- sensitivity to light, both nighttime glare and daylight

- fading colors

- difficulty reading

- double vision (often goes away as cataracts worsen)

- Frequent changes in prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses

It is important to note that small cataracts may not cause any noticeable changes in your vision, but as the condition tends to develop slowly, it will eventually get worse. For some people, their close-up vision will improve, but this is only temporary. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor, as these may be signs of a cataract or other eye conditions. An ophthalmologist, a doctor who specializes in eye care and surgery, should be seen to diagnose and help treat your eye condition.

Treatment

For smaller cataracts, the first steps of treatment include changes in your prescription of eyewear, using a magnifying lens, or increasing your lighting. As the condition progresses, surgery is the most effective treatment.