Since cataracts start small and develop slowly, it is hard for individuals to recognize signs or symptoms. Here are a few ways to identify cataracts:

• Glare
• Poor night vision
• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Faded colors
• Double vision with only one eye open
• A sudden frequent change in prescription for corrective lenses

Cataracts will appear when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. This phenomenon obstructs vision greatly. Cataracts may begin small but will eventually increase until vision is impaired, in some cases this has lead to complete blindness. Most cataracts can be a part of the natural aging process and the degree to which a person suffers from cataracts is also genetic. In addition to age-related cataracts, there are several other types, including:

• Congenital cataracts which are present at birth
• Traumatic cataracts which result due to an eye injury
• Radiation cataracts as a result of radiation exposure
• Secondary cataracts that are complications of glaucoma, diabetes, or certain medications

Once your lens becomes clouded, there is no way to uncloud it. The only treatment for cataracts is lens replacement surgery, which can be done with multifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs).

If you are beginning to suffer from cataracts, don’t let your vision desert you. Contact Boling Vision Center today for a consultation. Treatment options include cataract surgery, ReZoom(tm) and ReSTOR(r) lenses.