Cataracts

Nearly two million cataract surgeries are performed each year in the United States. Cataracts affect more than 20 million Americans age 40 and older. By age 80, more than half of all Americans have cataracts.

Cataracts occur when the eye’s lens loses proteins, similar to what happens when water evaporates from saltwater solution, leaving behind salt crystals. The lens gradually becomes opaque, so gradually that you may not even know you have cataracts until you have an eye examination. People with cataracts often experience symptoms such as:

• feeling like their glasses are not clean
• sensitivity to glare, particularly at night while driving
• worsening nearsightedness

Cataracts are one of the most curable eye diseases. The clouded lens is removed by an ophthalmologist and is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens implant. Several types of cataract surgeries are available.

Ultraviolet light and smoking contribute to early development of cataracts. Take precautions – wear sunglasses and quit smoking.

Remember to schedule regular eye examinations to detect any eye abnormalities in the early stages. Call 952-993-3150 for appointments.