Have you tried driving in dense fog? It’s very difficult to see more than a few feet in front of your vehicle. Now imagine that fog – or cloud if you will – was inside your eye. This is an analogy for cataracts, a clouding of your eye’s natural lens. Allow us to answer several questions about cataracts:
1. Are there different types of cataracts?
Yes, there are four different types of cataracts – age-related, traumatic, pediatric, and radiation. Allow us to highlight how each type of cataract forms:
- Age-related cataracts occur due to the natural aging of your eye. However, certain lifestyle choices may increase your chance of cataracts (smoking, excessive alcohol intake, diabetes, etc.)
- Traumatic cataracts form after an eye injury has been sustained. A cataract may form soon following the injury or form many years later.
- Pediatric cataracts are rare, but may occur if they are in the genes, the child suffers a serious illness, or the child endures trauma to the eye.
- Radiation cataracts can be traced to radiation from the sun or from certain cancer treatments.
2. Can cataracts cause blindness?
Yes, cataracts can cause blindness. However, the removal of cataracts and implantation of an intraocular lens (IOL) can restore your vision. So, in a sense, this blindness is temporary and can be reversed if cataract surgery is performed.
3. What is an intraocular lens (IOLs)?
An intraocular lens (IOL) is what is placed in your eye after the removal of the cataract. It restores the focusing power within the eye. An IOL is popular in the ophthalmology world as it cannot cloud over like an eye’s original, natural lens.
4. How will untreated cataracts affect my vision?
A handful of cataracts do not cause blindness. However, most cataracts will continue to worsen over time. Untreated cataracts make it difficult for light to reach the retina which, in turn, causes blurry vision. In addition to blurry vision, daily activities like driving or reading become very difficult.
The Vision Eye Group team can diagnose, monitor, and treat your cataracts. Call us today to schedule an evaluation: 478-744-1710
Stay tuned for our three-part series on cataracts:
- Part 1 – Cataract FAQs
- Part 2 – Cataract Surgery FAQs
- Part 3 – What to Expect After Cataract Surgery