Metro Eye Care Centers
Cataracts
The human eye is very similar to a camera.  The lens focuses light onto the retina, which acts like the film inside a camera.  A cataract develops as the lens of the eye becomes cloudy.  The cloudy lens causes like to scatter and makes it difficult for a clear image to focus on the retina. 
Image above from: www.ftleye.com/images/Cataractexample.jpg
What causes cataracts?
Most commonly cataracts develop as a natural part of the aging process.  Some people can be born with their cataracts (congenital cataracts).  Cataract development  can be associated with:
  • Sunlight exposure (UV)
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Injury to the eye
  • Long-term use of steroid medications

What is the treatment for cataracts?
Currently, the only way to remove a cataract is through surgery.  However, many people can have cataracts for years before surgery is necessary.  In the early stages of cataracts, patients may experience changes in their glasses prescription, glare at nighttime, and decreased vision in poor lighting.  Since most cataracts do not cause harm to the health of the eye, cataract surgery becomes necessary when the vision cannot be corrected to an acceptable level with glasses and when the patient is ready.  Most insurances require vision to be below a certain level before approving cataract surgery.  The time for cataract surgery is a decision made between you and your doctor.