CATARACT SURGERY IN SEATTLE
Your eye has a clear lens through which light passes, allowing you to see. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens inside the eye. The clouded lens distorts and blocks the passage of light to the retina, causing vision to be blurred. While cataracts can affect people of any age, they are most common in older adults. They are a natural part of the aging process.
CAUSES OF CATARACTS
Cataracts are typically caused from years of exposure to sunlight. In younger people they can result from an injury, certain medications, or illnesses such as diabetes. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may also play a role in the formation of cataracts. Studies have also shown that people who smoke have a higher risk of developing cataracts than non-smokers.
SYMPTOMS OF CATARACTS
Cataracts usually start as very small and practically unnoticeable but gradually grow larger and cloudier. Colors are duller and vision may grow fuzzy. Glare is bothersome in both bright sunlight and at night. Although cataracts usually develop without apparent pain, some indications that a cataract may be forming include:
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Double vision
- Poor vision in bright light
- Seeing halos around lights
- Yellowish tinged vision
- Night vision difficulty
It is important to continue to visit your eye doctor regularly so the cataract’s progress is monitored. If your cataract is interfering with your vision to the point where it is unsafe to drive, or perform everyday tasks like reading or work is difficult, then it’s time to discuss cataract surgery with your doctor.
HOW TO TREAT CATARACTS
Cataracts cannot be treated with medication or lasers. Cataract surgery is still the only treatment option and one of the most common, reliable operations. Each year, more than a million people have their vision improved through cataract surgery. During surgery, we remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
When your vision and eye health matter, discover great care from a board-certified ophthalmologist at CLEARVIEW Eye & Laser. Call 206.431.9600 in Burien or 206.937.9600 in Seattle. We also welcome patients from Kent, Renton, Vashon Island and surrounding areas.
