Cataracts

Our Approach

At Franciscan Health, our ophthalmologists (eye specialists) carefully assess blurry vision to accurately identify the source. When we confirm a cataract is the cause, we recommend the most appropriate treatment for you. Our aim is to restore clear vision so that you can continue enjoying your life.

How is a cataract diagnosed?

To determine whether you have a cataract, your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms and examine your eyes. You may have tests including:

• Visual acuity test: You will read an eye chart to check the clarity of your vision.
• Slit-lamp examination: Your doctor uses a light and magnification to view inside your eye.
• Retinal examination: Your doctor uses drops or specialized equipment to dilate your eyes and view the interior of the eye. The exam will reveal the extent of your vision loss.

When do you need surgery for cataracts?

If the cataract isn’t causing major vision problems, your doctor may prescribe glasses or another visual aid to sharpen your vision.

For advanced cataracts, the only successful treatment is surgery. Most patients’ vision improves in the treated eye about a week after surgery. In most cases, the eye fully heals within two months. You may still need to wear glasses after cataract surgery.

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. Many people say seeing with a cataract feels like looking through a foggy window.

Cataracts typically develop slowly. At first, they don't affect vision, but eventually they interfere with your eyesight. The extent and pattern of cloudiness can vary.

Types of cataracts

There are several types of cataracts, including:

• Nuclear cataracts affect the center of the lens
• Cortical cataracts affect the edges of the lens
• Posterior subcapsular cataracts affect the back of the lens
• Congenital cataracts are present at birth

Cataracts form when protein accumulates in the lens. The buildup reduces the amount of light that passes through, affecting vision. This condition is fairly common as people age and can happen in one or both eyes.

Your risk for developing cataracts increases if you have regular exposure to cigarette smoke and air pollution. Alcohol intake can also increase the risk. Other causes of cataracts include:

• Genetic disorders
• Medical conditions such as diabetes
• Certain steroid medications
• Previous eye trauma or surgery

Cataract symptoms

The initial cloudiness caused by a cataract may not be significant enough to cause any vision loss. However, as the cataract grows larger, it will slowly start to distort your eyesight. Common symptoms of cataracts include:

• Clouded, blurred, foggy or darkened vision
• Abrupt nearsightedness
• Trouble seeing at night
• Double vision in one eye
• Sensitivity to light and glares
• Need for brighter light to read
• Differences in the way you see color, particularly yellow.