What Are Cataracts?

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a condition that affects the lens of the eye.  In a healthy clear lens, light passes effortlessly through the lens for crisp vision.  When a person develops cataracts, their natural lens becomes cloudy, blocking or diffusing the light that passes through.  The result is cloudy and blurry vision that will only worsen over time.  

What causes cataracts?

Cataracts are an unfortunate part of the natural aging process of human beings.  If you live long enough, you will develop cataracts.  This is due to the chemical makeup of the lens of the eye.  The lens is made up of water and protein.  As we age, the protein begins to calcify, causing the lens to become at first hardened and then cloudy.  You may not notice it at first, but the process gradually worsens over time until vision is compromised enough to need cataract surgery.        

Cataracts are most common in people over the age of 50, although the condition may be present at birth or caused prematurely by an eye injury. Other factors, including the presence of certain eye diseases, such glaucoma and eye tumors, may also cause the development of a cataract.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Cataracts develop gradually over time, and vision loss is often not noticeable for quite some time.  However, as the cataract ages, you will begin to notice certain symptoms.  These include:

• Blurry or clouded vision
• The appearance of halos or glaring, especially around lights
• Double vision

• The dullness of vibrant colors
• A feeling of "film" over the eyes

• Your prescription changes often and unexpectedly

Cataract Treatment

Once you begin to develop cataract symptoms, you can improve your vision using a number of aids, including new glasses, magnifying lenses, and special lights.  These solutions are only temporary, but they can often prolong the need for surgery for years. 

However, the only permanent solution for cataracts is to undergo cataract surgery.   With cataract surgery, the cloudy lens of the eye is removed and replaced with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).  The good news?  Cataract surgery is the most common procedure performed in the United States, and is amazingly successful, with over 95% of patients restoring complete visual clarity after the procedure.  There are even advanced lens options that can leave you with 20/20 vision without glasses after the procedure.   

If you or someone you know suspects cataracts, contact us today for a cataract evaluation to determine the health of your vision and treatment option available. 

If you have questions about cataracts or are considering cataract surgery, we encourage you to contact us here at Rocky Mountain Ophthalmology. Located in Golden, Colorado, we are proud to serve the surrounding areas of Denver, Lakewood, Boulder, and Glenwood Springs.